Addictions Therapy in London and Online
An addiction can represent a very challenging obstacle to your everyday life. Work, relationships and leisure time can all be greatly affected by addictions. Although it can be hard to recognise and admit that you, or someone you love, has an addiction, whether it’s related with substances (e.g., drug addiction, alcohol addictions, etc., ) or behaviours (sex addiction, gambling addiction, etc.), addictions therapy and counselling can help you make the crucial changes to bring back balance and fulfilment into your life.
Work with our qualified Addictions therapists today.
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Discover Addictions Therapy
What is an Addiction?
Addiction is a condition in which a person engages in the use of a substance or behaviour due to rewarding effects providing a compelling incentive to repeat the behaviour despite detrimental physical and psychological consequences, such as physical exhaustion, difficulties in relationships and social life, and disruption of everyday activities. Under these circumstances, it can be important to seek professional help from an addiction therapist.
People with an addiction often report needing to feel a buzz from their addictive behaviour or substance, which after being sought may be quickly followed by feelings of guilt, shame or despair. People may spend hours each day and night carrying out their addiction at the expense of neglecting other aspects of their life. Addiction may involve the use of substances such as alcohol, inhalants, opioids, cocaine, nicotine, or behaviours such as gambling, sex, internet, porn.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Addiction?
Below are common signs of addiction, using drugs as an example, but also relevant to behaviours (some may be specific to the drug being used):
- having to use the drug regularly
- compulsive drug seeking
- failing in attempts to stop using the drug
- making certain that a supply of the drug is maintained
- spending more money on the drug than can be afforded
- doing things to obtain the drug that are out of character (such as stealing)
- needing the drug to deal with problems or to escape
- taking risks such as driving when under the influence of the drug
- spending more and more time and energy on getting and using the drug.
Addictions can often be precipitated by or have an impact on other mental health issues and personal difficulties such as depression, panic attacks, disturbed sleep, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, financial difficulties.
What Causes an Addiction?
Addiction often starts with social or casual use of a drug or behaviour. Increasingly, people find that they can only feel good when they engage in the drug/behaviour and it becomes increasingly difficult to go without. In the case of drugs, alcohol and nicotine, these substances affect the way you feel, both physically and mentally as your brain releases hormones that make us feel good. The more a person uses them, the more tolerant their body becomes, and they need it more frequently and in larger amounts to achieve the same effect. Gambling and other behaviours may result in a similar mental “high” after a win, followed by a strong urge to try again and recreate that feeling. This can develop into a habit or uncontrollable desire (many of the same brain mechanisms of compulsivity are triggered) that becomes difficult to stop and not having/doing it will likely mean experiencing psychological and/or physical withdrawal symptoms. Because this can be unpleasant, it’s easier to carry on having or doing what one craves, and so the cycle continues despite the negative consequences on one’s life. Over time, pursuit of the pleasurable effects of the substance or behaviour may dominate an individual’s activities. When working with an addiction therapist, you’ll explore together the very specific causes that brought an addiction into your life.
When Should I Seek Help for Addictions?
When you or a loved one begins to display the above signs of addiction and your daily functioning, health and/or other aspects of your life become affected, it is important to seek help.
How does Addictions Therapy Help?
Treatment can involve a combination of medication, behavioural treatments, counselling and medically assisted withdrawal. For substance dependence, withdrawal therapy or detoxification may provide a way to help an individual to stop taking the drug as quickly and safely as possible. CBT Therapy can help an individual to understand their addiction and to recognise and avoid situations that encourage or trigger its occurrence. Our addiction therapists work integratively. This means that they may draw upon different approaches alongside CBT in order to find the best fit for your specific needs.
What are the Benefits of Addiction Therapy?
We help our clients to become actively involved in the therapeutic process and explore any underlying reasons for the initiation and maintenance of the addiction cycle. This will help encourage the modification of their attitude and behaviour, and to learn life skills which help them to cope when not engaging in addictive substance use or behaviours.
All our addiction therapists recognise that addiction is a complex, multi-faceted condition influenced by biological, psychological and environmental factors. At Therapy Central we will help you to focus on many of these dimensions in life, including family roles, work life and interpersonal difficulties. We also recognise the other psychological issues as described above and help to address these. Through therapy we can help you to overcome the addiction in a safe space; the process can take time and patience. Relapse is often part of the process, and we will assist you to address prevention and management of recurrent use, should you slip along the way, without judgement.
What Happens during Addictions Therapy?
The first session will guide you through the process of addiction therapy and you will work together with your addiction therapist to find a journey that suits you. Sessions are open-ended, last 50 minutes and are usually weekly. At Therapy Central, we also offer couples and family therapy which may help to support you on your journey.
Debunking Myths about Addiction
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Only certain types of people suffer from addiction
Anyone can develop an addiction regardless of age, gender, income, upbringing, ethnicity, strength or ‘badness’ of character etc; the hostility some people can experience is unfair and perpetuates shame and stigma which may deter people from seeking help. Having an addiction may lead to ill judged behaviour, but good people can also make mistakes. Support and acceptance rather than reprehension will help them to make better decisions and recover.
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Addiction is a choice and those who want to, will stop
No-one chooses to become addicted, just as no-one would choose to have a severe medical issue. It can have serious adverse effects on people’s lives and it is highly unlikely that people would choose this for themselves. Substance addiction (and it is increasingly considered that behavioural addiction) has a profound impact on the brain of those vulnerable to it. It can affect self-control, decision making and create strong impulses to take drugs. Willpower alone is not enough to recover from this and these overwhelming urges may help to explain the behaviours of those who are affected, despite harmful consequences.
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Being addicted to prescription drugs or illegal drugs is different
Wrong. Misusing prescription drugs affects the same areas of the brain as misusing illicit drugs, and can lead to the same risks of addiction. The misconception that prescription drugs are provided by doctors and therefore safer to use even in higher doses, is damaging.
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If someone has a stable life i.e. job and family, then they’re fine
Many people may appear to be functioning well to the outside observer, but these are the ones who may be struggling to come to terms with their addiction, and being easier to hide makes it harder for others to notice.
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If therapy didn’t help before then it won’t help again
Wrong. The journey of recovery can take time and varies between people. Having a lapse is just a setback and most people will get back on track and can recover. You are not a lost cause.
Our therapists who specialise in Addictions
All of our therapists are qualified psychologists, psychotherapists or counsellors registered with several professional bodies. These include the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the British Psychological Society (BPS), as well as, BACP, UKCP and BABCP.
Our therapists use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), psychodynamic, humanistic and integrative approaches tailored around your needs to help you deal with your unique challenges and reach your goals.
Testimonials
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The Therapist l had was absolutely brilliant with me. He had patience with me and bit by bit l gained a little of confidence to try and get out and go on the buses.
He deserves an award and if l could l would in the beginning l thought how is this person going to get me back on public transport but he did he gave me the confidence l lost and now have back.
I will never forget him and what he has done for me. I wish him nothing but the best in his life.
(Patricia)
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My therapist was excellent. I highly recommend her and I am truly thankful for my sessions, I left feeling confident and positive.
The mental tools, systems and approaches I have been able to develop with her and use in my life have been hugely beneficial.
Thank you to all at Therapy Central.
(John)
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The Therapist really gave me the space to talk and express my feelings and fears in a very comforting environment.
She was there not only to listen, but challenge my thinking, guide me during the uncertainty I was experiencing and give me useful and practical tips to improve my mental health and wellbeing. Highly recommended!
(George)
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Working with the therapist has been a life-changing experience. Each session has been invaluable, helping me gain a good understanding of CBT methodology enabling me to incorporate ways to combat stress and anxiety in my daily life.
The Therapist shows that she really cares and has the ability to make you feel calm whilst discussing any personal issue.
(Richard)
Fees & Insurances
Therapy, Counselling and CBT sessions are 50 minutes long and are usually held at regular weekly time slots.
Free
15 Minute Initial
Phone Consultation
£80 - £125
Psychological Therapy/
Counselling (Self-funded)
£115 - £150
Couples Therapy/
Family Therapy
Covered by
Your Private Healthcare Insurance Provider
Addiction Therapy in London and Online
If you are looking for Addiction therapy in London or online, at Therapy Central we can help you learn the strategies you need to start working on getting more in control of your addiction. As a result, you’ll be enabled to make the crucial changes to bring balance and fulfilment back into your life.
It’s not easy to recognise that you might have an addiction, and seeking help is an act of enormous courage and the first step towards recovery. You are not alone.
Get professional help with Addictions in London or Online today. Contact us for a free 15 min consultation with an Addiction Therapist to see if our help would fit your needs. You can also get in touch via email at info@therapy-central.com or call us at (+44) 020 348 82797.
FAQ
What happens after I make an enquiry?
After receiving your enquiry we’ll contact you to organise a FREE phone consultation. You will be able to tell us more about your specific circumstances and needs and ask any questions you have. Then, if you want to proceed with therapy or counselling, we’ll match you with the therapist(s) with the best expertise to help you with your challenges and send you a list of their available appointment slots. If you’re satisfied with one of these, we can then go ahead and book your first appointment. You can also request to work with a specific practitioner and, depending on availability we’ll try accomodate this.
What happens at my first appointment with the therapist?
Your first session will likely be different than future appointments. You and your therapist will get to know each other and will begin to build a working alliance. It will be a chance to have the confidential space to express your circumstances, feelings and thoughts and being listened to with depth, attention, empathy and without judgement . Your therapist will likely ask you more about your reasons for seeking therapy, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. You may also be asked questions about your past and the history of your issues, as well as how they currently impact your life in the present. Finally, your first session may be a powerful place to discuss what you would like to achieve with therapy and agree on the length, methods and approaches of treatment.
Is online therapy effective?
If you choose online over in-person therapy rest assured that this has been proven to be just as effective as regular face to face therapy, and in some cases even more effective. In addition, choosing online therapy brings additional benefits, for example avoiding longer waiting times, greater flexibility with appointments and you won’t need to travel to our practice. You can enjoy online therapy from the comfort of your home.
How long the Therapy/counselling sessions last?
Therapy/counselling sessions last 50 minutes and are held at regular weekly time slots. On occasions we are able to allow some flexibility. This can be discussed with your therapist.
Do you offer reduced rates/concessions?
We aim to offer low-cost rates to people with a low income, unemployed or students. Please let us know in your enquiry if you would like a concession rate and how you qualify for this. Depending on the availability of our therapists, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
We have a 48 hours no-fee cancellation policy. However you will be charged for sessions missed without giving the full notice.
Our Practice in Central London
Our comfortable and confidential therapy rooms are conveniently located 3 min walk from Oxford Circus station, in Central London (see map below). Change starts with Talking!
Further Helpful Resources on Addictions:
NHS further info on addictions
Other issues we work with at Therapy Central
Learn more about how CBT works
Authors:
Dr Sheetal Dandgey, Counselling Psychologist
Dr Amy Smith, Counselling Psychologist
Dr Raffaello Antonino, Counselling Psychologist
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