Addictions Counselling & Treatment

Habits are different from addictions. Habits are done by choice. The person with the habit can choose to stop, and will subsequently stop successfully if they want to. On the contrary, with an addiction, there is a psychological/physical component. The person is unable to control the aspects of the addiction without help because of the mental or physical conditions involved.

People with an addiction do not have control over what they are doing. Their addiction may reach a point at which it becomes harmful. There is evidence that any behaviour can become a true addiction if practised intensely enough over a long period to cause alterations in brain structure and or function. This includes substance abuse, alcohol, eating disorder, gambling, sex, and love.

Techniques utilized include behavioural therapy (e.g. stimulus control), social skills training and stress management. Psychoeducation is also key in addictions counselling and treatment as patients will then be empowered to understand, accept and cope with issues in a successful manner. Clients are also taught how to learn from relapses and prevent them.