Addictive behaviours
Work on your relationship with alcohol, substances, gambling, screens or other behaviours when it starts to slip out of control, alongside medical support when needed.
What is it?
Addictive behaviours are not a weakness of character. They often begin as a way of coping with difficult feelings, stress or loneliness, and over time can move beyond a person's own control.
Besides alcohol or substance use, behaviours such as gambling, shopping, gaming, social media or screen use can create a similar cycle. If you want to cut down or stop but find it hard, seeking support can be a good step.
Common signs
- Using more, or for longer, than you planned
- Repeated attempts to cut down or stop that do not last
- Work, relationships or responsibilities suffering as a result
- Restlessness, tension or strong cravings when not using
- Hiding the behaviour or feeling ashamed about it
- It becoming your main way of coping with hard feelings
These signs alone do not mean a diagnosis; an assessment takes place in an in person or online session.
How can therapy help?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) works on recognising triggering situations and thoughts, building other ways of coping when cravings rise and lowering the risk of relapse. Psychodynamic (psychoanalytically informed) therapy focuses on understanding what need the behaviour meets in a person's inner world.
With addictive behaviours, psychological support is often provided together with medical and psychiatric care. The first step is to look at your needs together and build a support plan that fits you.
Approaches I use in this area
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
A structured approach that looks at the link between thoughts, feelings and behaviour and works on changing unhelpful cycles.
Read more02Psychodynamic (psychoanalytically informed) therapy
An approach that explores how past experiences, relationship patterns and feelings outside our awareness shape the present.
Read moreWhen is extra support needed?
Stopping alcohol or some substances suddenly can carry serious physical risks such as tremors, seizures and changes in consciousness. Withdrawal should always be planned under medical supervision. Where medication or inpatient care may be needed, I refer to a psychiatrist and appropriate services. If an overdose is suspected or there is immediate danger, call 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is it an addiction or just a habit?
That distinction cannot be made through a web page. If a behaviour is slipping out of your control and affecting your life, seeking support can be worthwhile whatever we call it.
Can I start therapy before deciding to stop?
Yes. Feeling unsure is very natural. In sessions we can also talk through your feelings about change and your ambivalence.
Can my family get support too?
Addictive behaviours deeply affect loved ones as well. Family members can seek support for themselves, and family sessions can be planned when appropriate.
Every process is personal. Therapy does not guarantee a specific outcome, but it offers a safe space for change.
Related areas of work
- Stress and burnoutWorking together on how long term stress and burnout affect your body, mood and relationships.
- Grief and lossSessions that accompany you through grief after losing someone close, a separation or a major life change.
- Sleep problemsPsychological support when falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up rested feels hard.
Whenever you feel ready, I am here
Get in touch with any questions or to book a session. You will usually hear back on the same day.