Top addiction therapists in 32168: New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Any addiction is a primary disease. It has to be dealt with first. If it isn’t, no psychological healing or spiritual growth can happen. I encourage abstinence from your addictive substance or process. People benefit from desensitizing Relapse Triggers, healing memories and tools to avoid relapse. Psychotherapy with me includes these, but goes much further. I believe all addictions are symptoms of addiction to our thoughts. Example, “I need…, I want…”. It is repeatedly thinking the same thought in spite of its negative consequences. We break this cycle with tools:present moment awareness,noticing your real needs, shifting negative core beliefs and using a plan of recovery.

The goal for any client struggling with addiction issues is not just sobriety, but learning to cope with life's challenges without using drugs, alcohol or some other "distraction" to avoid the pain of life. Using the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, changing our distorted and negative thoughts and behavior, we are able to stop avoiding and remain "in the moment" and begin to live the life that we deserve and desire.

Rooted in a holistic approach, I believe that addiction stems from early-life adversity and trauma, causing individuals to seek belonging in substances or behaviors. I emphasize the importance of compassion, self-acceptance, and addressing underlying pain as key components of recovery. I do not agree with this cultures approach of criminalizing drug use and clearly see how this belief has done a disservice to people who ultimately need healing. Healing trauma through experiential therapy can be rewarding and life changing. I have an advanced degree in addiction treatment and prevention studies. In working with me you will be treated with respect. You will learn to tolerate difficult emotions.

Nathan has extensive experience in the field of addiction and trauma recovery and has completed training for certification as a Certified Trauma Therapist. He also has personal experience with combating addiction and trauma together as a multiplied force, and processing the trauma that underlies and fuels addiction. He will provide support in a safe and encouraging environment, and will utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to your specific needs in order to help you claim progress in your efforts to heal and recover from addiction and trauma.