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    At our practice in Perth, we recognise that addiction is more than just a habit—it is a complex psychological and physiological condition that affects brain cells, emotional health, and social wellbeing. Our dedicated clinicians provide evidence-based therapy that focuses on both the symptoms and the root cause of addiction. We believe that every individual has the potential to heal, recover, and create a fulfilling life beyond addiction.

    Addictions are a major concern in society, with issues like drug addiction and drinking alcohol remaining prevalent. People can develop compulsive behaviours around various substances, experiences, or processes. Addiction counsellors at Energetics Institute in Perth offer specialised support to help people affected by alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, and more. Our therapy programs provide treatment options to individuals, young adults, and families seeking a healthier, more fulfilling life.

    If you are struggling with drug use, alcohol dependence, or other addictions, we can help. Many clients we work with have what is commonly characterised as an “addictive personality.” Our approach focuses on self-regulation, addressing the emotional pain or isolation that often contributes to negative consequences. Our dedicated clinicians help people recovering from compulsive behaviours regain control of their lives.

    How Do I Know If I Have An Addiction?

    A key sign of addiction is that your thinking shifts as a result of your engagement in harmful behaviours. You may begin prioritising alcohol, drugs, or gambling over family members, work, or personal wellbeing. Some people struggle with denial, becoming unwilling to acknowledge the severity of their issue. Addiction is often characterised by a lack of control, where an individual eventually becomes unable to stop.

    Other common signs include:

    • Increased tolerance and greater dependency on substances.
    • Avoiding responsibilities, relationships, or employment.
    • Lying or deceiving others about the extent of involvement.
    • Negative consequences such as deteriorating physical and mental health.
    • Emotional instability, including anger, shame, or self-harm.
    • Feelings of isolation and withdrawal from family members and loved ones.
    • Decline in work or school performance.
    • Increased preoccupation with engaging in addictive behaviour despite negative consequences.
    • Finding it difficult to experience joy or fulfillment without substance use.
    • Engaging in addiction-related activities even when it poses a serious risk to one’s wellbeing.
    • Loss of interest in hobbies and activities that once brought enjoyment.
    • Experiencing anxiety or restlessness when unable to engage in addictive behaviour.

    If these symptoms resonate with you, we encourage you to contact a professional counsellor. Treatment programs provide strategies for achieving stability and wellbeing.

    Why Do Addictions Occur?

    Many addictions stem from past trauma or mental health concerns, including gender identity struggles, anxiety, and depression. People often use substances or addictive behaviours as coping mechanisms to escape emotional pain. Our therapy programs aim to address the root cause of addiction, helping clients develop healthier coping strategies.

    Factors contributing to addiction include:

    • Genetic predisposition.
    • Environmental influences such as peer pressure or stress.
    • Past experiences of trauma, abuse, or neglect.
    • Underlying mental health conditions.
    • Feelings of emptiness or a lack of purpose in life.
    • The role of learned behaviours and social conditioning in substance use.
    • The impact of family history and past exposure to substance abuse.
    • Lack of emotional support or guidance in difficult times.
    • Social isolation and a lack of meaningful connections.
    • Repeated exposure to stressors without healthy coping mechanisms.

    Types of Addictions We Treat

    Our team provides addiction counselling for a wide range of issues, including:

    Symptoms of Addiction

    Addiction interferes with various aspects of life, often causing harm to relationships, work, and physical health. Some key symptoms include:

    • Obsessive thinking about engaging in addictive behaviour.
    • Declining engagement in work, social life, and other responsibilities.
    • Increased secrecy and isolation from loved ones.
    • Defensiveness, hostility, or anger when confronted about behaviour.
    • Cycles of depression, anxiety, and compulsive urges.
    • Engaging in risky behaviours despite the negative consequences.
    • Using substances or engaging in behaviours to cope with stress or emotional pain.
    • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit.
    • Decreased ability to manage emotions in a healthy manner.
    • Struggling with guilt, shame, or regret over substance use or addictive behaviour.
    • Developing irrational fears or paranoia linked to substance use.
    • Losing track of time while engaging in addiction-related activities.

    How Can Addiction Counselling Help?

    Addiction is a complex condition, but it is treatable with the right support. Therapy provides a safe space for individuals to begin their recovery journey. Our therapists in Perth use evidence-based approaches, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, to address both the symptoms and root causes of addiction.

    Treatment can help individuals:

    • Develop healthier coping mechanisms.
    • Understand the role of trauma in addiction.
    • Improve relationships with partners, family members, and friends.
    • Rebuild resilience and self-worth.
    • Regain control over addictive behaviours and improve overall wellbeing.
    • Learn self-regulation strategies to manage cravings and urges.
    • Improve emotional stability and mental health.
    • Build confidence and regain a sense of purpose in life.
    • Strengthen problem-solving skills to navigate triggers and challenges.
    • Learn new habits to replace addictive behaviours and encourage a fulfilling life.
    • Recognise and address emotional triggers leading to addiction.
    • Create structured routines to establish stability and consistency in recovery.

    Our treatment programs are tailored to each person’s needs, allowing them to progress at their own pace.

    Enquire About Addiction Counselling Services

    Seeking addiction counseling? If you would like to do something about managing addiction issues long term, please contact us to make an appointment!

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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    The most effective therapies for addiction vary depending on the individual and the type of substance use disorder. Common evidence-based treatments include:

    • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thought patterns that contribute to addiction.
    • Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Encourages individuals to find internal motivation for recovery.
    • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) – Assists with emotional regulation, often helpful for individuals with co-occurring disorders.
    • 12-Step Programs (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous) – Provide structured peer support for long-term recovery.
    • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Uses medications like methadone or naltrexone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

    The 4 C’s help define addiction and distinguish it from casual substance use:

    1. Compulsion – A strong, overwhelming urge to use the substance.
    2. Craving – Intense desire or obsession with obtaining and using the substance.
    3. Consequence – Continued use despite knowing the negative impact on health, relationships, and responsibilities.
    4. Control Loss – An inability to regulate or stop substance use even when wanting to quit.

    Addiction is challenging to overcome because it physically and psychologically alters brain chemistry. Substances affect the brain’s reward system, making it difficult for individuals to experience pleasure from normal activities. Additionally, triggers, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and environmental influences can make relapse more likely. Emotional factors such as stress, trauma, and co-occurring mental health disorders can also contribute to difficulty in maintaining sobriety.

    • Obsessive Thinking – Constantly thinking about the substance or planning when to use it next.
    • Emotional Dependence – Relying on the substance to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain.
    • Loss of Interest in Other Activities – Prioritizing substance use over hobbies, relationships, and responsibilities.

    Early withdrawal symptoms often include anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and cravings. Depending on the substance, physical symptoms like sweating, nausea, headaches, or shaking may also appear within hours after stopping use.

    Yes, addiction is classified as a chronic brain disorder and a mental health condition. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) recognizes substance use disorders as mental illnesses that require medical and psychological intervention. Addiction is influenced by genetics, brain chemistry, environment, and mental health, and treatment often involves both medical and therapeutic support for long-term recovery.