Addiction Therapists in Schomberg, ON.

Often when we encounter the pain from trauma or stress we numb or avoid with substances as it feels intolerable to feel and face it. We do this for good reason. This is how we were wired for protection from threat. At some point along the way we begin to realize that these responses may have helped us in the past when we were in survival mode but they are no longer serving us. We can learn to be grateful for our protective parts that helped us when we needed them. These behaviors helped keep pain at a distance so we could function. Now we realize we are no longer in the wilderness being chased by a tiger. We can learn to confront pain, tolerate distress and explore new ways of living.

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.

Do you or a loved one need help for alcohol or substance abuse? Are addictions to pornography, sex and/or the internet hurting the people in your life? Do you have a gambling, drug, alcohol, food, sex, work, and/or shopping addiction (s) that are impacting your life? Are you impacted by your family member's addiction? Counselling for addiction and codependency is available. I am an adult child of an alcoholic. I am a recovering addict myself. It takes one to know one, and it takes one to help one! You do not need to struggle alone, let me be your one! I've Got your Back. We can work holistically and also utilize the 12 Steps. Note: I am a Cannabis Friendly Psychotherapist

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

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

In my approach to addictions I work with clients to understand how the addiction may be helping them to cope and help them to learn alternate healthy coping mechanisms. Addressing related underlying issues may also be important in helping clients to leave the addiction behind. Although clients often find it difficult to let go of the addiction, they slowly feel ready as they begin to take steps and have more positive life experiences, which are also explored during therapy. Client strengths, motivations, hopes, and values are also considered and through these approaches clients begin to feel safe, satisfied, and happy living their life without the addiction.

While I have had little training for addiction, I can offer counselling for the anxiety, depression, family relationship challenges, and boundary-setting related to the addiction. Addiction often requires medical professionals, counsellors, family and a strong support system so I am often a member of a team helping a person and/or family. My passion is to find a cause for the use of addiction and this is explored with family of origin history and processing of past trauma experiences.

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

If you are reading this profile, you are probably concerned about your addiction issues to the point that you want to seek help. You are probably sensing that you are losing control over your addictive behaviours. You are likely struggling with the impacts of your addiction on your daily functioning, such as school, work, sleep, concentration etc.. I would like to applause your courage to seek help. This is a significant sign of your readiness to acknowledge your issues and make the changes. Addiction is an avoidance behaviour that try to draw our attention to the underlying issues we need to work on. Don't hesitate to reach out and get the help you need now.

I am a Psychotherapist and Addictions Counsellor and having been through an addiction myself I understand what it takes to work through an addiction. I have built up a number of tools and modalities to teach others to gain strength and self-esteem. Addiction is a very broad topic, one that can't be written in a few sentences. I have the confidence in my abilities to help you through your addiction(s) I will create a safe environment for you and your loved ones while going through your challenging time. If you’re not sure if you have an addiction, feel free to call or email me. I have the patience and understanding to meet your needs where ever you’re at today.

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.

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.

Addiction isn’t a failure—it’s a coping strategy that may have outlived its purpose. Whether you’re struggling with substance use, compulsive behaviours, or emotional dependence, we offer a non-judgmental space for healing. We’ll help you understand the emotional roots of the addiction, develop healthier coping strategies, and reconnect with what matters most. Recovery is not about perfection—it’s about rebuilding your life with honesty, self-compassion, and hope.