Addiction
Addiction is when an individual is unable to or has difficulty refraining from certain behaviours. Alcohol and substance use is a common addiction, but we work with clients navigating a wide variety of behaviours, including gambling, shopping, gaming, technology use and porn. At the beginning of an addiction can be an individual attempting to find a solution to a different problem ie. shopping for a dopamine boost when feeling down or using technology to connect with others when there is a lack of connection in their life. The behaviour can end up becoming a bigger problem than the initial challenge.
Types of addictions we work with with
Substances
Gambling
Shopping
Gaming
Technology
Porn
How we work with addiction
Seeking support for an addiction takes strength and bravery, and we honour that throughout the therapy process. Your first appointment will include a comprehensive conversation so that we can understand the patterns behind your use, how it impacts your emotions and how you manage work, relationships and other obligations.
Addiction rarely emerges without an underlying cause, so we will explore whether there is stress, trauma or other co-occurring conditions present such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality difficulties or challenges with attention and impulsivity.
Other important information we will ask you in the first few sessions is about your early life, previous experiences with support services and family history. Throughout the session, your psychologist will ensure that you feel listened to and that sharing your story doesn’t feel like an interrogation. Your psychologist will then choose an appropriate therapeutic approach, whether it’s CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy or EMDR, and discuss with you how this will support your treatment goals.
Psychologists who work with Addiction
in Melbourne
A large majority of our Psychologists are equipped to work with individuals wanting overcome their addiction and all bring a wide variety of life experience and clinical expertise to provide you with the support you need.
Not sure who would be the best fit?
Submit an enquiry here and our Admin team will be in touch to match you with a psychologist who suits your support needs and availability