addiction Counselling

addiction Counselling

We’ve all been through moments of feeling like we need “something” to feel better.

Addiction is a complex disorder that takes over the three key elements to a person’s well being: mind, body & spirit. And in most cases, addiction is used as an unhealthy coping mechanism for trauma, intense stress, emotional distress, depression, anxiety, etc.

For the individual struggling with the addiction there is an intense need to escape and avoid difficult experiences and painful emotions – often powerless over the addictive process.

There are two categories of addiction that can takeover a person’s life:

  • Process Addiction, i.e., gambling, sex, shopping, etc.

  • Substance Addiction, i.e., alcohol, cocaine, opiates, etc.

Some of the ways to identify if you have an addiction are if you continue to engage in the addictive behaviour despite negative consequences, withdrawal symptoms, urge based response to triggers, people in your life voice concerns, etc.

For the individual struggling with the addiction there is an intense need to escape and avoid difficult experiences and painful emotions. They often experience feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness over the addictive process.

It is also very difficult for people supporting an individual with an addiction. It is hard to know how to help, where to begin or when helping is hurting (enabling), navigating difficult decisions and understanding the addiction.

Rivers Edge counsellors can help you or your loved one understand and overcome their addiction. Addiction counselling sessions are available, one-on-one.

Addiction Counselling Can Help:

  • Identifying and manage triggers

  • Stabilize and understand the process of addiction

  • Learn to manage emotions and replace unhealthy responses with healthy ones

  • Support with multi-level and community based intervention

  • Help rediscover the person’s identity and sense of self

  • Work through the stages of change

  • Regain a sense of personal power and control

  • Learn more about your addiction

Addiction Counselling Can Help Loved Ones:

  • Understand how they can help the addict in their life – caregiver support

  • Understand of recovery process of an addict

  • Develop healthy boundaries

Other Helpful Resources

 

resources for Addiction Therapy

To start counselling now:

River’s Edge Addiction Counselling Therapists

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Nicholas Renaud
With 7 years of experience working with addictions and concurrent mental health disorders, I help individuals and their families overcome challenging issues related to internet, gaming, and substance addiction... read more
Using evidence-based and harm-reduction approaches, treatment aims to build skills and strategies to help clients regain control in their lives, reduce the problematic effects of these issues, and build a positive future. Nicholas's Full Bio

Robin Klasson
Substance use is often a way people try to manage emotional pain, trauma, stress, or disconnection. Whether you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol or other substances, seeking support in recovery, or noticing that substance use is starting to interfere with your life, therapy can help. ...read more
...I have extensive experience working with individuals at various stages of recovery—from early contemplation to long-term sobriety. My approach is non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and rooted in somatic and relational practices. We can work together to understand the patterns behind your substance use, develop healthier coping strategies, and support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Whether your goal is harm reduction, abstinence, or somewhere in between, I offer a therapeutic space to explore what works for you. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Robin's Full Bio

Shedean Jones
In working with clients facing addiction, my approach is rooted in understanding the complex interplay between emotional, psychological, and physical factors. I aim to meet clients where they are at, whether it be to completely abstain or to take a harm reduction approach. ...read more
...I help clients develop coping skills, manage cravings, and regulate emotions. Therapy sessions focus on identifying and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to addictive behaviours, such as trauma, stress, or mental health challenges. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to break the cycle of addiction, fostering long-term resilience and well-being. Shedean's Full Bio

Resources for Addiction

Featured
Wellness Matters Webinar - The Process of Addiction
Wellness Matters Webinar - The Process of Addiction

Learn about the Process of Addiction and how it can impact major life areas. Understand the continuum of use from non-use to abuse, and decide when to seek support. This talk explores why casual substance use can sometimes lead to addiction.

Wellness Matters Webinar — Understanding and Managing Screen Time and Concerns
Wellness Matters Webinar — Understanding and Managing Screen Time and Concerns

From smart phones and social media, to video game consoles and even online classes, technology has become an often inescapable necessity in our lives. But has the proliferation of devices in our homes, schools, and workplaces become problematic? Is our increased dependence on technology changing our brains and the brains of our children? This presentation explores the compelling nature of digital technologies, how to reduce the risks of their potential negative impacts, as well as what to do when screen use becomes problematic.

Maintaining Recovery During a Time of Isolation
Maintaining Recovery During a Time of Isolation

Recovery is about support, support, and more support. so, with community gatherings and centres shut down, it can be a stressful time to try and find ways to maintain your recovery. With loneliness, boredom, and stress being top triggers for relapse, it is essential to make sure you are keeping up with new and old recovery tools. During this talk, Britni discusses creative ways to help you through a lonely and stressful time.

the right fit

At River’s Edge Counselling Centre, we work with each new client to ensure they are matched to the right therapist. See how we do it:

Finding the right "fit"