Addiction Counselling

Behavioural Treatment

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Are you struggling with addictive behaviours?

Are addictive behaviours negatively impacting your relationships, work, or daily life?

Professional guidance and support from an experienced psychologist can be transformative in your journey to recovery.

Getting Started is Simple

1. Make an Appointment

Discuss your challenges and goals with a psychologist. Together, you will develop a personalised treatment plan to achieve your goals.

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2. Commence Therapy

CBT Therapy is an effective evidence-based psychological method used by psychologists to help individuals recognise and alter negative thought patterns and behaviours associated with their addictions.

3. Benefits and Next Steps

Experience the benefits of therapy for addictive behaviours, including enhanced understanding, coping skills, and long-term wellbeing.

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Addiction Counselling Psychologists

Chris Hepperlin, Clinical Psychologist

I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist who seeks to understand your goals and priorities and work with you with empathy, compassion and skill. I help adults with a variety of presentations, including addictive behaviours: food, alcohol, video gaming, porn, gambling, and “weapons of mass distraction” (phones, computers). I firmly believe in an integrated, holistic approach to your health and wellbeing (bio-psycho-social considerations).

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Peter Hayton

Peter Hayton, Registered Psychologist

I have vast experience and expertise in the treatment of addictive behaviours. I coordinated and cofounded Australia’s premier residential treatment program with The Banyans, a private rehabilitation and wellness centre in Southeast Queensland, specifically designed to provide comprehensive treatment for individuals dealing with mental health issues and addictions. I continue to provide treatment to those needing support and have many success stories of patients overcoming different dependency concerns through my therapies. 

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Laura MacCombie

Laura MacCombie, Clinical Psychologist

My name is Laura MacCombie, and I am a Clinical Psychologist with over ten years of experience. I have substantial experience working with adults struggling with addictions, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and relationship difficulties. 

More about Laura MacCombie >

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How Counselling for Addictive Behaviours Can Help You

Counselling for addictive behaviours with an experienced psychologist provides a supportive environment to explore underlying issues, develop coping skills, and create personalised strategies for recovery.

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Types of Addictions

People can be addicted to a wide variety of substances and behaviours. A list of common addiction types includes some of the below.

  • Substance Addictions

    Addiction to substances includes tobacco or nicotine, alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines and prescription medicines, and opioids, including heroin and prescription painkillers, among others.

  • Behavioural Addictions

    Behavioural addictions include some of the following:

    Gambling Addiction

    In this case, individuals experience compulsive gambling despite adverse consequences. They may chase losses, lie about gambling activities, and experience financial ruin. It is the only officially recognised behavioural addiction in the DSM-5.

    Technology and Internet Addiction

    This type of addiction involves excessive or compulsive use of technology such as smartphones, video games or browsing the internet, which, as a result, can lead to anxiety, e.g. when separated from your smartphone or when unable to connect to the internet, negatively interfering with your daily life. Other examples include social media addiction, online gaming, or general web surfing impacting work, mental health and relationships.

    Shopping Addiction or Compulsive Buying Disorder

    This type of addiction results in the inability to control spending. As a result, individuals can experience financial difficulties and relationship issues, e.g. with their partners. Typically, individuals experience a ‘high’ from purchasing items, followed by a sense of guilt and shame.

    Sex Addiction

    Often characterised by compulsive sexual thoughts and behaviours that interfere with daily life. It may include excessive pornography use, multiple affairs, or taking on risky sexual behaviours.

    Food Addiction

    Food addiction involves compulsive overeating, often of foods that are high in fat, sugar, or salt. Individuals experiencing food addictions may develop obesity and other health problems, as well as emotional distress.

    Work Addiction

    People experiencing work addiction, typically called ‘workaholics’, are often excessively preoccupied with work-related activities at the expense of their health and relationships.

The most appropriate therapeutic approach depends on an individual’s needs and circumstances. A psychologist works with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that can include one or more therapeutic methods. Treatment for addictions often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, support groups, and addressing any underlying mental health issues.

Addictions FAQs

What are Addictions?

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder. People with addictions experience a strong physical or psychological need or urge to do something or use something. It is a dependence on a substance or activity even if you know that it causes you harm. It can impact your daily life. It is considered a brain disorder since it involves functional changes to the brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control.

How are addictions treated?

Addiction is a treatable condition. With the proper treatment and support, you can overcome addiction and regain control of your life. depending on each individual circumstances, treatment of addictions may require a team of multi-disciplinary health professionals and may include:

  • Medication to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
  • Behavioural therapy such as Cognitive-behavioral Therapy or CBT Therapy and motivational interviewing.
  • Psychological therapy. DBT is beneficial for individuals who struggle with emotional regulation and self-destructive behaviours. It incorporates mindfulness techniques and skills training to help patients manage distressing emotions and improve interpersonal relationships. EMDR Therapy is increasingly recognised for its effectiveness in addressing the emotional roots of addiction. It helps clients process distressing memories related to their substance use, leading to healthier coping mechanisms.
  • Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
  • Rehabilitation programs for inpatient or outpatient care.

What to expect from addiction counselling?

Addiction counsellors may use a range of evidence-based therapies and strategies to support your recovery journey. These may include:

  • Psychoeducation about the nature of your addiction and its adverse effects on your body and brain.
  • Behavioural strategies including identifying triggers, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating structured routines to support sobriety.
  • Developing coping skills and techniques to effectively manage cravings, deal with stress, and improve emotional regulation.
  • Relapse prevention by developing a comprehensive treatment plan to manage potential setbacks.

What are the benefits of addiction counselling?

Addiction counselling with an experienced psychologist can provide numerous benefits and positive outcomes, including some of the following:

  • Increased self-awareness and understanding of addiction patterns.
  • Improved coping skills and stress management.
  • Enhanced relationships and communication skills.
  • Greater overall mental and physical wellbeing.
  • Reduced risk of relapse and long-term recovery success.

Make an Appointment

Send a request to a Psychologist in Brisbane by completing the form below.

Sources

Addictions Centre – https://www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/behavioral-addictions/

Choosing Therapy – https://www.choosingtherapy.com/behavioral-addictions/

American Addiction Centers – https://americanaddictioncenters.org/behavioral-addictions

National Institute on Drug Abuse – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery

Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/drug-help

Healthdirect – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/what-is-addiction

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