Addictions/Compulsions

Addiction can be understood as pattern of (substance) use, which continues despite negative consequences and leads to significant impairment or distress in social, occupational or recreational settings.

The misused “substances” of addictions come in many shapes and forms. In fact, humans can misuse an enormous variety of substances and experiences to keep from experiencing uncomfortable, unwanted feelings and thoughts. Addiction is sometimes about an excessive quantity of use, but it can also be identified by the “out of control” nature and self-destructive consequences of ones relationship to the substance or experience. Even things that can be fine in moderation –such as exercise – can be “used” in addictive and compulsive ways that can harm your relationship with your self and others.

I am comfortable with both Harm Reduction and “12-step” approaches to recovery.

Some common addictive behaviors that therapy can help with include:

• Alcohol and drug addiction – whether “prescription”
  or “street” drugs
  
• “Work-aholism”
  
• Excessive or compulsive exercising
  
• Shopping
  
• Sex addiction
  
• Internet gaming addiction
  
• Binge eating
  
• Pornography addiction
  
• Gambling
  
• Etc...

To read more about Addictions please see the links below:
Mental Help
Alcoholics Anonymous