Addiction Therapists in Halton Hills, ON.

Addiction is a process that involves dependence on a substance or behaviour that becomes uncontrollable. It affects loved ones who end up alienated and frustrated. The addicted person often suffers from low self-esteem and negative thinking patterns that need to be examined. I provide a context for understanding the origin of the issues and explore effective strategies to deal with the current addiction and explore new thinking and behaviours that will help usher in a healthier lifestyle. Family and community supports such as AA/NA are vital in the process of positive change sustained by strategies to prevent relapse. My experience shows that underlying issues must be addressed.

Addiction can occur with many substances and activities - alcohol, street drugs, prescription drugs, caffeine, food, porn, sex, gambling, Together, we will gain insight into the root of your addiction and the purpose it has served in your life. I will provide us with the compassionate and supportive dynamic essential to your journey of creating the life experience you desire.

I have helped literally thousands of men who struggle with pornography addiction and the grief it brings to their marriage. The toxicity of shame and secrecy help keep this struggle private until caught. This addiction is not an easy one to win against on your own and needs the attention of a therapist. Most men have no idea why they are so locked into this addiction. In the last few years, women too are becoming increasingly more caught in the web of porn addiction, equally with no idea why. Although porn addictions look sexual they are often another issues being acted out sexually. This is where I have been so successful in helping people with this addiction and find the freedom they want.

Is replacing your addiction with more healthy practices a significant challenge as you struggle with addiction. I can help with strategies to divert your attention from addiction. I can also offer a place to discuss shame and overcome. In addition, we can talk about ways to repair your relationship with yourself and the people in your life.

Addiction is a very complex issue, and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that the impacts of addiction are far reaching. While there are many factors that contribute to addictions, it is imperative to learn about emotional regulation in order to learn how to manage them. Individuals struggling with addictions find themselves in a continuous viscous cycle fighting uncomfortable emotions. Individuals continue with addictions because drugs, alcohol, gambling, etc. provide immediate and temporary relief from their environment and their painful emotions. My focus with addiction counselling is teaching emotional regulation and behavioural modification strategies.

Clients who come to me with addictions or substance misuse challenges will be met with a non-judgemental, consistently optimistic approach. Together, we will address the causes and course of the substance use, and resolve the issues that acted as the catalyst. We will identify possible triggers, develop effective strategies for harm-reduction and/or recovery, depending on the readiness, and goals of the individual. The pace of therapy will be guided by the client, and relapse will be accepted with understanding and compassion. Without question, it is difficult to overcome an addiction. But with the right support, insight and motivation, it is more than possible.

Addiction is a cycle that seems impossible to break free from. There is a resilience in you that is more powerful than any struggle. During counselling we’ll work towards an understanding of the role of addiction in your life. What needs is it trying to fulfill? What pain does it try to soothe. Together we will develop a toolbox designed to create a life free form addiction that is full of meaning connection and authenticity.

While I do not offer specialized addiction counselling, I do work with clients who present with addiction issues that are causing challenges in their relationships. I offer clients information about addiction, including common signs and symptoms, potential consequences, and available treatment options so that they can better understand their struggles and feel motivate to seek specialized help. I provide a supportive environment, acknowledge clients' challenges and validate their experiences without judgment.

A person may choose to cope with life issues by engaging in certain behaviours or by using substances. Once they start abusing a substance or repeatedly engaging in certain negative behaviours, this is known as addiction. Addiction is a disease that negatively impacts the individual suffering as well as their family and friends. Therefore, to minimize the damage and to increase the probability of efficiently overcoming the disease comes with early intervention. Using a task-centered approach will help individuals face the reality and causes of their addiction.

Let's face it, we all have some kind of addiction. Whether it is illegal or legal substances (like sugar or coffee), we all face this challenge to a greater or lesser degree. Guilt & shame will drive us further from ourselves & others. Armed with responsibility & a well stocked emotional toolbox, self management can be obtained and maintained. This is all very doable, with support and commitment to change.

Whether you’re struggling with addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, therapy with me offers a safe, compassionate space to explore the deeper “why” behind it. Together, we turn toward the addiction using a biopsychosocial lens that considers the emotional, physical, relational, and systemic factors at play. Through curiosity and compassion, we work to understand the origin of the addiction and its role in trying to soothe or protect. This process invites empowerment, healing, and self-connection. Recovery is possible, and taking this step is an act of bravery toward reclaiming your story, your strength, and your sense of self.

Sex addiction is one of the hardest addictions to treat because it’s not about avoiding/quitting the “poison”, rather, managing sexual desire in the right context. And since it’s based in shame, internal discomfort & self-loathing, approaching it from a moral judgment standpoint only exacerbates the problem. As such, I conduct the treatment process from a place of understanding, so the client can reach in their darkest places to identify triggers and we can address them – the process also works with porn addiction. I take a multi-prong approach – identifying & treating root causes, eliminating the addictive cycle, replacing it with constructive ways of self-soothing, and building self-esteem

With ample experience in the arena of addiction (especially Sexual Addiction), I can help you break the cycle that has hindered your path to health. You will gain self awareness in why you keep going back to the addiction even though you don't want to. You will learn to manage your triggers that kick off the addiction cycle so that you will make better choices.

Pornography and gaming addictions are about coping, escaping, or feeling in control—often at the cost of relationships, motivation, and overall well-being. Over time, it can feel like your brain is wired to chase the next hit of stimulation or distraction, even when part of you wants to slow down or stop. Matt supports individuals to rebuild confidence, reconnect with real-life relationships, and find healthier ways to manage your emotions such as anxiety or boredom. Reducing or eliminating these behaviours also helps recover your time, focus, and sense of self.

There are many forms of addiction. Understanding what addiction is and how it affects day to day life is a necessary part of the recovery process. Unfortunately it can affect work and relationships. Many times it negatively impacts health. Making a decision to get help is important as accountability is a key component to recovery and healing. Therapy can provide tools for coping as well as learning to deal with the challenges one faces living with addiction.

My approach to addiction counselling focuses on understanding the root causes of addiction and helping clients develop healthier coping strategies. Using techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness, I help clients build self-awareness, address emotional triggers, and create lasting change. Clients benefit by improving emotional regulation, and strengthening their commitment to recovery.

Research has shown that addictions are caused by lack of connection and trauma. Through proven CBT methods and strategies, clients issues can be addressed. Whether it be alcohol, substance abuse, sex, internet or gambling addiction, CBT techniques and methods are particularly effective. Seeking Safety Coping Skills are also used as an effective tool in the immediate short term.

My approach to treating addiction revolves around understanding the emotional factors underlying addictive behaviors. Clients explore emotions and experiences without shame in a non-judgmental space. Together, we develop personalized strategies for recovery and relapse prevention. Empathetic support helps clients gain insight into triggers and healthier coping mechanisms. The benefits include self-awareness, improved emotional regulation, and breaking free from addiction for a more fulfilling life.

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

As smart as we humans are, we can so easily fall into habits and addictions that defy reason and rationale, yet every habit is born from a positive intent. From my deep understanding of classical conditioning and behavioral change, I can help you to uncover the origins of your addiction and work to break free once and for all. I currently have a 90% success rate for smoking cessation using hypnosis using methods that are tailored specifically to each of my clients, since I truly believe that one size does not fit all. Are you ready to get the help you need?

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, you’re not alone. In fact, the Canadian Mental Health Association estimates that 21% of Canadians will struggle with some form of addiction (substance or behaviour) within their lifetime. Addiction is often a misunderstood, complex and pervasive life challenge, that impacts a person’s ability to maintain satisfying relationships and enjoy a fulfilling life. I help adult men struggling with addiction(s) better understand their beliefs, behaviours and emotions. Together, we develop coping strategies to address the emotional pain, often associated with addiction, with a renewed strength, determination and sense of accomplishment.

ChatGPT said: In my work with addiction, I approach recovery as a process of understanding and healing rather than judgment or control. I see addictive patterns as attempts to cope with pain, disconnection, or unmet emotional needs. Together, we work to uncover the underlying experiences that fuel these behaviours, while developing healthier ways to manage distress and build self-compassion. I integrate mindfulness, emotional regulation, and trauma-informed approaches to support lasting change. My goal is to help clients reconnect with themselves, cultivate agency, and move toward a life rooted in authenticity, balance, and meaningful connection.

My approach to addiction is not about managing cravings or enforcing control. Addiction is the visible symptom of a deeper fracture — disconnection from self, others, and the sacred. It is a response to unresolved trauma, attachment injuries, and existential pain. Our work is not about behavior management but about restoring right relationship — with your own inner life, with the wounds that shaped you, and with the possibility of living in a way that no longer requires the addiction to survive.

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 to substances or behaviors can be devastating and all encompassing. Working with a therapy style which suits each individuals personal values and beliefs can be helpful in moving towards change. Concentration on relapse prevention can offer opportunities to celebrate small successes and build resilience for long standing health and wellness.