Relationships with Substances and Coping with other Problematic Behaviours
Improved Relationships: Assists in repairing and improving relationships with family and friends.
Stress Management: Teaches stress management techniques to reduce the risk of relapse.
Developing Healthy Habits: Encourages the adoption of healthy habits and routines.
Empowerment: Builds self-esteem and confidence to lead a substance-free life.
Life Skills Development: Enhances life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.
Goal Setting: Helps in setting and achieving personal and recovery-related goals.
With two years of experience in high-intensity harm reduction at an Downtown East Side overdose prevention site, I don’t see 'disorders'—I see survival. While the medical model uses labels like Substance Use Disorder, my practice focuses on the reality of your lived experience. We work together to understand your relationship with substances as a response to systemic pressures and personal history, prioritizing your safety and autonomy over clinical checkboxes. We explore how systemic pressures and lived experiences shape the ways you've learned to cope.
Types of addiction can manifest in various forms, such as substance addiction (alcohol, drugs), behavioral addiction (gambling, shopping), and digital addiction (social media, gaming).
Regardless of the type, addiction is characterized by the compulsive need to engage in the addictive behavior despite negative consequences.
Seeking help and support is crucial in managing and overcoming addiction, as it can have detrimental effects on an individual's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Understanding Addiction: Increases understanding of the nature and causes of addiction.
Coping Strategies: Teaches effective coping mechanisms to handle cravings and triggers.
Behavioral Changes: Encourages positive changes in behavior and lifestyle to support recovery.
Relapse Prevention: Develops strategies to prevent relapse and maintain long-term sobriety.
Self-awareness: Increases self-awareness and understanding of underlying issues contributing to addiction.
Addressing Co-occurring Disorders: Helps in identifying and treating co-occurring mental health conditions.
