Alcohol and Substance Use Treatment
A person's choice to talk to a counsellor about alcohol or substance use is a difficult one for many reasons. Often this choice comes as a result of a long process of inner reflection, sometimes a painful one.
In my experience, counselling individuals who struggle with such issues, I have learned that it helps to simplify the process. I take a flexible, research-based approach which works on two complimentary levels.
1. The first level is the one in which we look at what aspects of your use bothers you. Is it that you're drinking more frequently than you used to? Or you may be using a substance in such a way where you aren't feeling like yourself anymore? Maybe you have been prescribed a medication and you feel the unwelcome effects of dependency. Once we figure out where the issue lies for you, we can create a plan whereby you're less likely to drink or use. In my field, we call these "behavioural goals," and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy may be used. Your safety is my priority, and I will always ask you how you can manage any risks.
2. The second level of therapy focuses on the meaning of the behaviour for you. Alcohol, illicit and licit (prescribed) substance all have differing significance for the user. Your use may be a coping strategy in response to emotional pain, for example, caused by anxiety, depression, and exposure to trauma. Neuroscience reveals that alcohol and substances can chemically relieve or numb out these feelings of pain and suffering. If your coping strategy has become unmanageable, counselling can help. Our therapeutic work can help you to find safe and logical ways to deal with both the thoughts and feelings related to your use.
Note: Individual treatment for alcohol and substance use can always include referral to residential treatment, group therapy, and other wellness tools.
If you have any questions about alcohol or substances I am happy to answer them. I also offer educational services on these topics. This information can be catered to individuals or groups. Contact me for more information.
In my experience, counselling individuals who struggle with such issues, I have learned that it helps to simplify the process. I take a flexible, research-based approach which works on two complimentary levels.
1. The first level is the one in which we look at what aspects of your use bothers you. Is it that you're drinking more frequently than you used to? Or you may be using a substance in such a way where you aren't feeling like yourself anymore? Maybe you have been prescribed a medication and you feel the unwelcome effects of dependency. Once we figure out where the issue lies for you, we can create a plan whereby you're less likely to drink or use. In my field, we call these "behavioural goals," and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy may be used. Your safety is my priority, and I will always ask you how you can manage any risks.
2. The second level of therapy focuses on the meaning of the behaviour for you. Alcohol, illicit and licit (prescribed) substance all have differing significance for the user. Your use may be a coping strategy in response to emotional pain, for example, caused by anxiety, depression, and exposure to trauma. Neuroscience reveals that alcohol and substances can chemically relieve or numb out these feelings of pain and suffering. If your coping strategy has become unmanageable, counselling can help. Our therapeutic work can help you to find safe and logical ways to deal with both the thoughts and feelings related to your use.
Note: Individual treatment for alcohol and substance use can always include referral to residential treatment, group therapy, and other wellness tools.
If you have any questions about alcohol or substances I am happy to answer them. I also offer educational services on these topics. This information can be catered to individuals or groups. Contact me for more information.