Addictions
Addiction is the lay person's terms for a compulsive behavior over which someone has lost control. Clinically one can abuse a drink, drug, food, sex, relationship, money, shopping, or process (such as exercise) or be dependent upon it. If you are concerned about yours or someone else's potential addiction, there is help.
If you are wondering, "Have I crossed the line into addiction or do I (or my loved one) just have a problem?" It's time to get help so that you are not looking at this alone. A primary defense of addiction is denial, so it's extremely important to seek help if you or someone you love is asking questions about addiction.
Together, we would notice if there is an obsessive preoccupation with a substance or activity: 1.Is there is an inability to stop the behavior even when you have tried? 2. Is there an increase in the substance use/behavior over time? 3. Is there and increased tolerance for the substance/behavior over time? 4. Is there a desire to escape when using the behavior or a desire to feel "normal?"
My doctoral research at Hazelden, an inpatient chemical dependency center for the treatment of adults ages 18-86, was an important experience of understanding addiction and I worked solely with addictions for several years of my practice both with individuals and in groups. I am qualified as a professional and vulnerable companion.
I find it a privilege to journey with the clientele I have served over the past 13 years as a psychotherapist. And, I bring 25 years of experience as an educator, caregiver, administrator, retreat directress, workshop leader (see my resume for details) and co-journeyer to support your unique healing process. Come join me, as together we seek Freedom Through Psychotherapy: Transforming Lives, Healing Hearts.
For more information on addictions and statistics about its impact see http://www.drugabuse.com
For more information on Twelve Step support for addictions see
http://www.aa.org
http://www.oa.org
http://www.sa.org
http://www.slaa.org
Or for Christian recovery programs: http://www.celebrate-recovery.org
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