Addiction
“Addiction is not something you ‘cure,’ it’s something you learn to live with and, in doing so, you can transform yourself.”
Addiction is a complex issue that comes in many forms, and it can disrupt not only our own lives but also the lives of our loved ones. Whether it's physical, behavioral, or emotional, addiction often creates cycles of struggle, isolation, and pain. I firmly believe that individuals who are dealing with addiction deserve a compassionate, non-judgmental space where they can explore their struggles and reclaim control over their lives. Addiction is not a moral failing; it’s a challenge that many people face, and it’s important to approach it with empathy and understanding. Stigmatizing people who struggle with addiction only reinforces shame, making it harder for them to seek the help they need to manage or overcome their behaviors.
Addiction can manifest in various ways, and therapy can be an essential part of the journey toward recovery. Some of the types of addiction that therapy can address include:
Physical Addictions
Physical addictions involve substances that the body becomes dependent on. These can include alcohol, nicotine, opioids, prescription drugs, amphetamines, hallucinogens, and other substances. These addictions often result in physical cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and a compulsion to continue using despite negative consequences. I work with clients to understand the underlying emotional, psychological, and environmental factors contributing to their substance use. Through therapy, we can build healthier coping strategies, manage cravings, and explore ways to restore balance and well-being.
Behavioral Addictions
Behavioral addictions are not tied to substances but rather to patterns of behavior that can become compulsive and disruptive. Common behavioral addictions include compulsive internet use, food, sex, work, exercise, shopping, and gambling. These behaviors can provide temporary relief or pleasure but ultimately lead to negative consequences like financial strain, damaged relationships, and emotional distress. I help clients explore the emotional drivers behind their compulsive behaviors and work toward healthier, more fulfilling activities. By understanding these patterns and learning new ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotions, clients can begin to break free from these destructive cycles.
Emotional Addictions
Emotional addictions are often less recognized, but they can be just as disruptive. These involve becoming addicted to specific emotional states, such as prolonged sadness, infatuation, or anger. Emotional addiction can manifest as an intense need to stay in a particular emotional state because it feels familiar, even if it’s unhealthy. For example, a person might find themselves repeatedly drawn to toxic relationships, always seeking the emotional highs and lows, or continuously reliving past traumas. In therapy, we can explore these emotional patterns and work to create healthier emotional habits that allow for greater peace, stability, and emotional resilience.
I provide therapy interventions that reduce the harm surrounding addiction, increase insight into the patterns of addiction, and work towards accountability-related goals. Therapy provides you the tools and courage to break your addiction, even if that sounds impossible right now.
In my relational and eclectic approach to addiction, I prioritize building a strong, trusting connection with you, where you feel seen, heard, and understood. I believe that addiction often stems from deeper emotional struggles, such as trauma, anxiety, or unresolved pain. By working together in a safe and compassionate space, I help you explore the underlying issues driving your addiction, while also supporting you in developing healthier ways to cope with those emotions.
Using a blend of therapeutic techniques, I tailor our work to what fits you best. This might involve cognitive-behavioral strategies to challenge negative thought patterns and resist acting on harmful urges, mindfulness practices to increase self-awareness, or emotion-focused techniques to address the emotional pain tied to addiction. I also draw on attachment theory to understand how early relationships may have shaped your patterns, offering you the chance to heal relational wounds that could be contributing to addictive behaviors. My goal is not just to help you stop the cycle of addiction, but to empower you to build a more balanced, fulfilling life where you feel in control of your choices and connected to your sense of self.
Talk therapy cannot replace medical interventions such as an emergency room, medically assisted drug detox, or appointments with your primary care provider.
For some addictions, it may be safest for us work in conjunction with your medical team to ensure you are receiving high quality wraparound care.
