Addiction & Substance Abuse (Alcohol & Marijuana)
Common Addiction Symptoms
Do you think you might be addicted to a substance? In my private practice, I focus on helping people with mild-moderate addiction issues (severe problems are best treated as part of a specialized addictions program). If you are struggling with either alcohol or cannabis (weed), please feel free to reach out and we can discuss your options. Below are some sings that addiction might be an issue for you:
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Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you're meant to
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Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to
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Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance
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Cravings and urges to use the substance
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Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because of substance use
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Continuing to use, even when it causes problems in relationships
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Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use
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Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger
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Continuing to use, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by the substance
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Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want (tolerance)
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Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance
How I Can Help
Throughout my career, I have been lucky to work at various addiction treatment centres, such as the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Homewood Health & Toronto Western Hospital's Mental Health & Addiction Program. Working with over a hundred of clients at these centres has allowed me to develop an extensive understanding of various forms and severities of addiction, treatment approaches and addiction-related resources. In our work together, we would start by helping you identify your treatment goals (moderation or abstinence), explore your motivation for making changes, identify reasons for your use (e.g. coping with negative feelings), begin addressing underlying mental health issues, connect you with additional resources, and help you find alternative ways of coping. Finally, we would work together to help you develop an addiction-free lifestyle and a solid relapse prevention plan.
Questions & Concerns About Addiction Treatment
I'm Worried About Being Judged
It's understandable to be concerned about being judged, but it's important to remember that therapy is a safe and confidential space where you can openly discuss your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
I'm not Sure I'm Ready to Change
Ambivalence i.e. the state of having mixed feelings about changing is *very* normal when you're thinking of adjusting your relationship with substances. My goal is to "meet you where you are at", which in practice means working with you at your own pace and in accordance with your treatment goals. Note that many people are able to achieve meaningful change despite having reservations at the outset of therapy.
What if I Fail?
It's common to be afraid of failing, but it's important to remember that setbacks are a normal part of the process of change. It's okay to make mistakes and to have setbacks. The important thing is to learn from them and to keep moving forward. My role as your therapist is to help you develop coping strategies and to support you through the ups and downs of the recovery process.
OK, I think I struggle with Addiction...
Please fill out the form below to set up a free 15-min phone chat where we can talk about your substance use and treatment options.