Therapy for Drug & Alcohol Issues
Addiction, or dependence on a particular substance or activity, is one of the most complex areas of mental health. Therapy for addiction is not one-size-fits-all, your treatment will be tailored to meet your individual needs.
There are many and varied reasons for which the use (and subsequent abuse) of alcohol or other substances starts. For some it is abuse during childhood, for others it is recreational use that has become out of control, for others it is a way of dealing with daily life stressors.
Alcohol and drug abuse or misuse—excessive or inappropriate use of a substance—can be difficult to define, and people’s opinions, values, and beliefs vary significantly on the topic. For some, any use of an illegal drug or any use of alcohol with the primary purpose of intoxication constitutes abuse. For others, abuse is indicated by recurring, negative consequences, such as:
- Failure to meet social, work and academic obligations
- Physical illness or injury
- Alcohol- or drug-related legal problems, such as arrest for DUI
- Relationship problems
- Impulsivity, such as spending money excessively
- Diminished interest in other activities
- Short term memory loss or blackouts
Alcohol and drug addiction is also a relapsing disease. Relapse is the return to alcohol or drug use after an attempt to stop.
Addiction is a disease that affects both the brain and behaviour.
Can Drug & Alcohol Addiction be Treated?
Yes, but it’s not simple. Because addiction is a chronic disease, people can’t simply stop using drugs for a few days and be cured. You may need long-term or repeated care to stop using completely and recover their lives.
Addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Treatments may vary based on your needs. You can choose the treatment that works best for you based on the substance you’re abusing, the level of care you need, your personal mental health needs.
What Types of Therapy are used for Drug & Alcohol Issues at The READ Clinic?
The types of therapy for drug and alcohol issues tend to include:
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a valuable treatment tool because it can be used for many different types of addiction including, but not limited to, food addiction, alcohol addiction, and prescription drug addiction. Not only can CBT help you recognise your unhealthy behavioural patterns, but it can also help you learn to identify triggers and develop coping skills. CBT can be combined with other therapeutic techniques as well
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Originally used to treat PTSD by reducing emotional distress from traumatic memories, EMDR is now successfully used to treat a range of drug and alcohol related behaviours and impulses.
Internal Family Systems (IFS / Parts Work)
Internal Family Systems is a new way of thinking about the treatment of substance abuse, addiction and gambling problems. It begins with an understanding that these addictions have a functional role that helps the individual deal with vulnerable feelings. Understanding how to work with the part of you that is maintaining these behaviours, and developing care and compassion for this part of you is the first part of this therapy that leads to healing.
Practitioners experienced in therapy for drug & alcohol issues
To make your first appointment, please call us on 4363 6600.
