Addiction

Addictions are always about pain and emptiness - trying to fill the void from the outside with substances and emotional highs that temporarily reduce the pain. Excessive - alcohol and other drugs, gambling, sex and food to name only a few are common ways of trying to avoid pain. Of course they ultimately increase the pain, not just for the person using - but for everyone associated with them.

Long term success for clients with addictive behaviours is about learning (with help) to fill the void from the inside, and finding peace and contentment with life. Being satisfied with doing ordinary things most of the time. Yes it is possible!

Our overall goal is to increase our clients awareness and choices concerning their behaviour, as well as to develop positive coping skills and self-control capacities. We always encourage a sense of co-operation and openness in which clients learn to perceive their addictive behaviour as something they do, rather who they are.

By being more objective we hope to focus less on the guilt and defensiveness and use more energy on working towards change. We encourage clients to take an active role in the treatment, planning and decision making and assume personal responsibility at every stage of the program.

What about partners and family members?
We offer counselling and support for partners and other family members. Most likely a crisis has occurred prior to seeking help and it can be a very confusing time all round. The pain surrounding addictive behaviours affects everyone and the trail of destruction leading up to this point will mean there have been lots of losses. Rebuilding one's life is always challenging, but every crisis will bring opportunities for change.