Addictions 

Addictions counselling gives you tools to identify negative habits and separate yourself from the symptoms of addiction. 

Addiction counselling is a specialized form of therapy aimed at helping individuals overcome and manage addiction problems, which can include substance use disorders or behavioural addictions, such as gambling or internet addiction. The goal is to help individuals identify the root causes of their addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and build a sustainable recovery plan. 

At Alberta Forensic Psychology, our addictions counselling is evidence-based and comprehensive, including an initial assessment, treatment, relapse prevention and maintenance of productive changes made.

An activity becomes an addiction when you develop a compulsive relationship with some sort of activity. Some behavioural changes include defensive and irritability, loss of control, constant cravings, changes in behaviour, and loss of interest in relationships.

Please be advised that the above can be symptoms of other issues, which is why an initial assessment is important to determine the right diagnosis.

Some common signs of addiction include a persistent focus on a substance that interrupts daily life and the harmful repetition of engagement in particular behaviours. When confronted, blaming others, defensiveness, or denial can also be signs of an addiction issue.

Anyone struggling with a substance use disorder or a behavioural addiction can benefit from addiction counselling. This can include people struggling with addiction to alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription drugs, or behaviours such as gambling, eating, sex, and internet use.

Addiction counselling can be highly effective, but its success often depends on the individual’s commitment to the process, the skill and experience of the counsellor, and the appropriateness of the treatment plan for the individual’s specific needs. Other factors, like supportive social networks and stable living conditions, can also significantly impact recovery success.

The length of addiction counselling can vary widely depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction. Some people may require short-term counselling for a few months, while others may benefit from long-term counselling that spans several years.

Addiction is considered a chronic disease, much like diabetes or heart disease. It can be managed successfully, but it often requires long-term treatment and ongoing management. The goal of addiction counselling is not to “cure” the addiction but to help individuals manage their condition and live a fulfilling, productive life in recovery and to prevent relapse.

The varying nature of addiction means that no two counselling plans are identical. We work with our clients to understand their needs and develop a treatment plan that effectively works for them. This can include:

• Exploring unhealthy triggers
• Counteracting negative behaviours
• Looking at past issues to discover underlying problems

Yes, many addiction counsellors offer online services, which can include individual or group sessions conducted via video call. Online counselling can be especially helpful for those who live in remote areas, have busy schedules, or feel more comfortable discussing their issues from the comfort of their own home.

This depends on your situation and treatment plan. Several possible scenarios may happen:

• Ongoing support
• Aftercare planning such as medication management (if applicable), regular check-ins, or participation in relapse prevention programs
• Maintenance strategies 
• Reintegration in daily life
• Support from family and friends