Addiction Recovery

Many people turn to substances or repetitive behaviours as a way of coping with feelings that feel overwhelming, unsafe, or unbearable. These might include shame, loneliness, fear, sadness, anger, or a deep sense of “not being good enough.” What starts as a way to survive or get through the day can slowly become something that feels out of control.

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I do not view addiction as a moral failing or a lack of willpower. I see it as a coping strategy, often developed in response to emotional pain, trauma, unmet needs, or a lack of safe connection. Most people who struggle with addiction are not “weak” or “bad.” They are trying, in the only way they know how, to manage what feels unmanageable inside.

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In my work, I use Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) to explore the deeper emotional patterns that drive addictive or compulsive behaviours. Together, we gently uncover what the substance or behaviour is doing for you, what it protects you from, what it soothes, what it numbs, and begin to create safer, healthier ways of relating to your emotions, your body, and yourself.

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Instead of simply trying to stop the behaviour, our focus is on:

• Increasing emotional awareness and tolerance

• Reducing shame and self-criticism

• Developing self-compassion and emotional safety

• Understanding your personal patterns of avoidance and coping

• Strengthening your ability to sit with difficult feelings without escaping them

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As your relationship with your inner world changes, the outer behaviours begin to lose their grip naturally.

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While mindfulness and practical strategies can be helpful at times, my work is not based on rigid techniques or willpower-based approaches. I am best suited to people who want to understand themselves more deeply and are open to an emotionally focused, relational process.

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Stigma toward people who struggle with addiction is still widespread, and I am strongly against this. In our work together, you will be met with respect, curiosity, and non-judgement. My role is not to criticise or control you, but to support you in understanding yourself and building a life that feels more connected, meaningful, and free.

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If this approach resonates with you, you are welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation via the Book Online page.

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