Addiction Counselling in Leeds

Photo of Dr Asna Ahmed, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Asna Ahmed
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS8
I work in a collaborative way with clients who present with unaddressed trauma, relational problems, anxiety, depression, low mood and a feeling of hopelessness. I have a special interest in trauma, attachment issues and addiction. Many of my clients identify with feeling stuck in their current situation or those who want to have a better relationship with themselves.
I work in a collaborative way with clients who present with unaddressed trauma, relational problems, anxiety, depression, low mood and a feeling of hopelessness. I have a special interest in trauma, attachment issues and addiction. Many of my clients identify with feeling stuck in their current situation or those who want to have a better relationship with themselves.
0113 320 6165 View 0113 320 6165
Photo of Joshua Oliver Jake Corner, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Joshua Oliver Jake Corner
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS10
I have extensive experience working with addiction having worked for a substance misuse service.
We can all have times in our lives when we find things tough, we can feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope or we may feel dissatisfied with our lives. This is how counselling can help. ​ I offer a safe space where you can talk openly and privately about your problems, feelings and behaviours. We can build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. It is a non judgmental space for you to speak about issues you face, that you may not feel comfortable to discuss with friends or family.
I have extensive experience working with addiction having worked for a substance misuse service.
We can all have times in our lives when we find things tough, we can feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope or we may feel dissatisfied with our lives. This is how counselling can help. ​ I offer a safe space where you can talk openly and privately about your problems, feelings and behaviours. We can build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. It is a non judgmental space for you to speak about issues you face, that you may not feel comfortable to discuss with friends or family.
0113 519 3167 View 0113 519 3167
Photo of Paul Schofield, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Paul Schofield
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS16
I bring a thoroughly up-to-date approach in helping people deal with a wide variety of emotional difficulties, including: Depression, anxiety and panic attacks, relationship problems, low-self esteem, loss and bereavement, addiction, obsessive compulsive problems, trauma and phobias, to name a few.
I know that seeking out a counsellor can be no easy task, and if you're reading this it's possible that you may have just had enough with feeling the way that you do. Sometimes we all need support in finding a way through, and in offering that support I bring the depth of my expertise and experience as a counsellor. I work with warmth, compassion and integrity, and a genuine desire to help a person tackle the particular difficulties facing them (see my video below). As a therapist I have some 20 years experience in supporting clients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
I bring a thoroughly up-to-date approach in helping people deal with a wide variety of emotional difficulties, including: Depression, anxiety and panic attacks, relationship problems, low-self esteem, loss and bereavement, addiction, obsessive compulsive problems, trauma and phobias, to name a few.
I know that seeking out a counsellor can be no easy task, and if you're reading this it's possible that you may have just had enough with feeling the way that you do. Sometimes we all need support in finding a way through, and in offering that support I bring the depth of my expertise and experience as a counsellor. I work with warmth, compassion and integrity, and a genuine desire to help a person tackle the particular difficulties facing them (see my video below). As a therapist I have some 20 years experience in supporting clients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
01535 286026 View 01535 286026
Photo of A. J. Farrell Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
A. J. Farrell Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS16
I have supported individuals around their mental health, housing, addiction and employment needs and have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds and communities.
I'm Andy and as a qualified person-centred counsellor, I strongly believe we all have the ability to navigate life's challenges by drawing on our own experience and capabilities. My role is to enable clients to explore whatever they choose in order to gain a deeper understanding of how it's impacting them, enabling them to create positive change. I do this through actively listening and offering useful reflections of themes I may notice, including any changes over time. I ask clients questions that encourage them to think about their experiences in new ways and never judge or lead anyone into talking about something uncomfortable.
I have supported individuals around their mental health, housing, addiction and employment needs and have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds and communities.
I'm Andy and as a qualified person-centred counsellor, I strongly believe we all have the ability to navigate life's challenges by drawing on our own experience and capabilities. My role is to enable clients to explore whatever they choose in order to gain a deeper understanding of how it's impacting them, enabling them to create positive change. I do this through actively listening and offering useful reflections of themes I may notice, including any changes over time. I ask clients questions that encourage them to think about their experiences in new ways and never judge or lead anyone into talking about something uncomfortable.
0113 512 7087 View 0113 512 7087
Photo of Ingrid Steele, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Ingrid Steele
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS17
I work with teenagers, adults, couples and families, providing practical, emotional and psychological therapy that is bespoke for you, using the latest therapeutic approaches, evidence from psychology and other sciences. I use a straightforward framework to help make sense of your life and understand your needs, called Human Givens. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, self harm, eating difficulties, trauma, personality disorder or dissociation - recent or longstanding. It may be relationship issues, identity, gender or neurodiversity. Clients I work with are seeking for their lives to be in better balance.
I work with teenagers, adults, couples and families, providing practical, emotional and psychological therapy that is bespoke for you, using the latest therapeutic approaches, evidence from psychology and other sciences. I use a straightforward framework to help make sense of your life and understand your needs, called Human Givens. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, self harm, eating difficulties, trauma, personality disorder or dissociation - recent or longstanding. It may be relationship issues, identity, gender or neurodiversity. Clients I work with are seeking for their lives to be in better balance.
01937 227419 View 01937 227419
Photo of Ursula Balikowska- Nori, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Ursula Balikowska- Nori
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS7
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anger, addiction, and many more.
Sometimes, you may not know which psychotherapy modality is right for you. This is why my approach is flexible and can be tailored to your specific needs. If you're looking to understand your current or past experiences, or if you want to work on becoming the best version of yourself for the future, I can help you on your journey. I often place a strong emphasis on the relationships you have with others or with yourself. At the heart of my practice lies my commitment to helping you feel better and reach your full potential.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anger, addiction, and many more.
Sometimes, you may not know which psychotherapy modality is right for you. This is why my approach is flexible and can be tailored to your specific needs. If you're looking to understand your current or past experiences, or if you want to work on becoming the best version of yourself for the future, I can help you on your journey. I often place a strong emphasis on the relationships you have with others or with yourself. At the heart of my practice lies my commitment to helping you feel better and reach your full potential.
0113 519 0006 View 0113 519 0006
Photo of Dominique Pitman, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Dominique Pitman
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leeds LS16
I work with clients on any issue at all such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, stress, relationship issues, trauma, eating issues, sleep problems, addiction, anger and low self esteem.
Are you struggling with everyday life at the moment, or are you not feeling yourself? Do you have lots of thoughts going round your head and you don’t know what to do about them? Taking some time out to talk to an experienced therapist can really help. Together we can explore your feelings and worries, better understand where they come from and also figure out what changes you could make to help you feel happier. I aim to listen and be truly alongside you throughout the sessions as you talk about anything that you want to bring – be it experiences from the past, things that are happening now, or concerns for the future.
I work with clients on any issue at all such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, stress, relationship issues, trauma, eating issues, sleep problems, addiction, anger and low self esteem.
Are you struggling with everyday life at the moment, or are you not feeling yourself? Do you have lots of thoughts going round your head and you don’t know what to do about them? Taking some time out to talk to an experienced therapist can really help. Together we can explore your feelings and worries, better understand where they come from and also figure out what changes you could make to help you feel happier. I aim to listen and be truly alongside you throughout the sessions as you talk about anything that you want to bring – be it experiences from the past, things that are happening now, or concerns for the future.
0113 519 0482 View 0113 519 0482
Photo of Steve Sharpe, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Steve Sharpe
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS11
Hi my name is Steve. My specialism is sex and porn addiction and compulsive behaviours. I have been providing this specialist service for 10 years and have helped many addicts recover successfully. I started as a couple therapist and worked for Relate for 7 years before training with Paula Hall at ATSAC in 2013 in sex addiction therapy. I am also a qualified and experienced supervisor for both experienced and student counsellors (discount available).
Hi my name is Steve. My specialism is sex and porn addiction and compulsive behaviours. I have been providing this specialist service for 10 years and have helped many addicts recover successfully. I started as a couple therapist and worked for Relate for 7 years before training with Paula Hall at ATSAC in 2013 in sex addiction therapy. I am also a qualified and experienced supervisor for both experienced and student counsellors (discount available).
0113 519 5155 View 0113 519 5155
Photo of Cat Bailey, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Cat Bailey
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS13
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
0113 487 2776 View 0113 487 2776
Photo of Tracey Cohen, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracey Cohen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
I Work with a number of issues. Depression Addiction Grief Relationship issues, anxiety stress. I offer couple counselling I am accredited with 21 years experience, I teach counselling and keep up to date with my work. I offer excellent Addiction therapy offering extensive experience and knowledge about alcoholism and drug addiction. I work in a confidential manner giving my clients the support needed to get results. I integrate my therapies using a variety of methods. Person centred Psychodynamic Cognitive Behaviour, EMDR, TA, Gestalts', I use what model is best for the clients issues. Call, text or email me for an appointment.
I Work with a number of issues. Depression Addiction Grief Relationship issues, anxiety stress. I offer couple counselling I am accredited with 21 years experience, I teach counselling and keep up to date with my work. I offer excellent Addiction therapy offering extensive experience and knowledge about alcoholism and drug addiction. I work in a confidential manner giving my clients the support needed to get results. I integrate my therapies using a variety of methods. Person centred Psychodynamic Cognitive Behaviour, EMDR, TA, Gestalts', I use what model is best for the clients issues. Call, text or email me for an appointment.
0113 519 0335 View 0113 519 0335
Photo of Narvinder Panesar, MBACP, Counsellor
Narvinder Panesar
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS17
Through my work, I've assisted clients dealing with various challenges, including childhood trauma, domestic abuse, bereavement, anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, relationship issues, low self-worth , and more.
Welcome to my profile! I'm known as Nita, a Therapeutic Person-Centred Counsellor with over 30 years of experience working with vulnerable adults. I provide warm, empathic, and non-judgmental counselling to help you find the support and safe space you need to process your emotions and thoughts. You can expect a safe, professional, and confidential counselling experience through face-to-face or remote sessions. As a Registered member of The British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), I adhere to its ethical framework, placing your wellbeing at the forefront. I am also bilingual, fluent in speaking Punjabi.
Through my work, I've assisted clients dealing with various challenges, including childhood trauma, domestic abuse, bereavement, anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, relationship issues, low self-worth , and more.
Welcome to my profile! I'm known as Nita, a Therapeutic Person-Centred Counsellor with over 30 years of experience working with vulnerable adults. I provide warm, empathic, and non-judgmental counselling to help you find the support and safe space you need to process your emotions and thoughts. You can expect a safe, professional, and confidential counselling experience through face-to-face or remote sessions. As a Registered member of The British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), I adhere to its ethical framework, placing your wellbeing at the forefront. I am also bilingual, fluent in speaking Punjabi.
01937 227313 View 01937 227313
Photo of Lucy Harrison, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Harrison
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS20  (Online Only)
Being in therapy is something many of us have needed over the course of our lives, by acknowledging you need some help now you have already come a long way. By working together we can make a real difference in how you cope and live your life. Over the years I have worked in a variety of settings helping people who were struggling with issues such as fear, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, stress, self harm, addiction, co dependency, anger. I have been helping people come to terms with their past, enjoy the present and look forward to the future for the past 18 years.
Being in therapy is something many of us have needed over the course of our lives, by acknowledging you need some help now you have already come a long way. By working together we can make a real difference in how you cope and live your life. Over the years I have worked in a variety of settings helping people who were struggling with issues such as fear, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, stress, self harm, addiction, co dependency, anger. I have been helping people come to terms with their past, enjoy the present and look forward to the future for the past 18 years.
01535 286047 View 01535 286047
Photo of Jenn Fletcher - Jenn Fletcher Counselling , MBACP, Counsellor
Jenn Fletcher Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Jenn Fletcher I am a qualified Counsellor with over 12 years experience. Are you at a stage in your life where you are experiencing pain, loss, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, fertility problems, menopausal symptoms or need addiction recovery support. If you are talking to me can help. I offer confidential, professional sessions to individuals and couples. I work in a client led way using different theories and skills. Offering insights and strategies to help find any solutions.
Hi, I am Jenn Fletcher I am a qualified Counsellor with over 12 years experience. Are you at a stage in your life where you are experiencing pain, loss, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, fertility problems, menopausal symptoms or need addiction recovery support. If you are talking to me can help. I offer confidential, professional sessions to individuals and couples. I work in a client led way using different theories and skills. Offering insights and strategies to help find any solutions.
01977 802451 View 01977 802451
Photo of Max Gillespie, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Max Gillespie
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Resulting from over twenty-years of experience working as a psychological therapist, I can help with a broad range of therapeutic material; bereavement end of life, trauma (including severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ), physical, psychological, emotional and mental, and spiritual forms of abuse, substance-misuse, anxiety, depression, and many others.
I offer a soulful approach to therapy grounded in the latest psychological theory. ​Often, it may seem that much of modern psychological therapy merely ruffles and reorganises the surface of the things that trouble us, seeing people who are experiencing psychological suffering as complex machines to which we can apply a set psychological theories. In contrast, after 20years of working as a psychological therapist, I believe it's more appropriate to approach clients as 'souls' in need of hearing, healing, connection, meaning, and renewal. ​
Resulting from over twenty-years of experience working as a psychological therapist, I can help with a broad range of therapeutic material; bereavement end of life, trauma (including severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ), physical, psychological, emotional and mental, and spiritual forms of abuse, substance-misuse, anxiety, depression, and many others.
I offer a soulful approach to therapy grounded in the latest psychological theory. ​Often, it may seem that much of modern psychological therapy merely ruffles and reorganises the surface of the things that trouble us, seeing people who are experiencing psychological suffering as complex machines to which we can apply a set psychological theories. In contrast, after 20years of working as a psychological therapist, I believe it's more appropriate to approach clients as 'souls' in need of hearing, healing, connection, meaning, and renewal. ​
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Photo of Cheryl Taylor, PhD, BACP, Psychotherapist
Cheryl Taylor
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Neuro developmental: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD: and secondary psychiatric symptomatology, emotional regulation, attachment, trauma, addiction, OCD/obsessional thinking.
Neurodivergence: ADHD, Autism. Bipolar, Psychosis, EMDR/ Trauma, CPTSD, dissociation, Attachment.
Neuro developmental: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD: and secondary psychiatric symptomatology, emotional regulation, attachment, trauma, addiction, OCD/obsessional thinking.
Neurodivergence: ADHD, Autism. Bipolar, Psychosis, EMDR/ Trauma, CPTSD, dissociation, Attachment.
01226 449328 View 01226 449328
Photo of Piotr Karpiński, MSc, BACP, Psychotherapist
Piotr Karpiński
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
As a psychotherapist, I help people who have difficulties in their relationships with others. They often feel fear of rejection and have a sense of loneliness. These problems can stem from various causes, such as difficult relationships with parents, low self-esteem, depressive or anxiety disorders, a life crisis, or addiction. I assist in identifying the source of these difficulties and work on resolving them.
As a psychotherapist, I help people who have difficulties in their relationships with others. They often feel fear of rejection and have a sense of loneliness. These problems can stem from various causes, such as difficult relationships with parents, low self-esteem, depressive or anxiety disorders, a life crisis, or addiction. I assist in identifying the source of these difficulties and work on resolving them.
020 4572 0892 View 020 4572 0892
Photo of Andrew Flynn - Talking Spaces UK , MBACP, Counsellor
Talking Spaces UK
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Waitlist for new clients
We offer help and support for a wide range of mental health issues such as anger management, gambling problems, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, post traumatic stress disorder, domestic abuse, gay affirmative therapy, social anxiety, stress and burnout, divorce, sexual performance anxiety and relationship counselling.
Empowering men to navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. Talking Spaces is an accessible counselling specialist service for men’s mental health, available in person or via Zoom. Generally men by nature are more action focused, so when it comes to managing difficult life events and emotions I use action and solution based therapeutic approaches and interventions when working with men’s mental health issues. Men need a service with the knowledge understand that social and cultural norms and ingrained beliefs about masculinity are one of the main barriers to seeking counselling in the first place.
We offer help and support for a wide range of mental health issues such as anger management, gambling problems, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, post traumatic stress disorder, domestic abuse, gay affirmative therapy, social anxiety, stress and burnout, divorce, sexual performance anxiety and relationship counselling.
Empowering men to navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. Talking Spaces is an accessible counselling specialist service for men’s mental health, available in person or via Zoom. Generally men by nature are more action focused, so when it comes to managing difficult life events and emotions I use action and solution based therapeutic approaches and interventions when working with men’s mental health issues. Men need a service with the knowledge understand that social and cultural norms and ingrained beliefs about masculinity are one of the main barriers to seeking counselling in the first place.
01429 806967 View 01429 806967
Photo of Natasha Menoni - Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1  (Online Only)
My expertise acknowledges challenges neurodivergent individuals may encounter including: anxiety, social anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, addiction, anger management, autistic burnout, OCD, low self esteem, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, trauma.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
My expertise acknowledges challenges neurodivergent individuals may encounter including: anxiety, social anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, addiction, anger management, autistic burnout, OCD, low self esteem, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, trauma.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
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Photo of Nicola Foster, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Nicola Foster
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
I have vast experience of working with, and successfully helping clients struggling with addiction, phobias, eating disorders or victims in domestic abuse relationships.
Life can be hard. An uphill struggle, and it can feel like you are on your own. You're not. We have all faced those tough, rough times and I have too. This is why I am looking forward to helping you overcome the barriers to your peace. There is little you can tell me that would shock or unsettle me, and I can be here to help you to get back on your feet. I am a positive, enthusiastic practitioner and an excellent listener. Together, we can work towards your ultimate goal; whether that be gaining confidence to work towards your dream job; or simply finding your smile again.
I have vast experience of working with, and successfully helping clients struggling with addiction, phobias, eating disorders or victims in domestic abuse relationships.
Life can be hard. An uphill struggle, and it can feel like you are on your own. You're not. We have all faced those tough, rough times and I have too. This is why I am looking forward to helping you overcome the barriers to your peace. There is little you can tell me that would shock or unsettle me, and I can be here to help you to get back on your feet. I am a positive, enthusiastic practitioner and an excellent listener. Together, we can work towards your ultimate goal; whether that be gaining confidence to work towards your dream job; or simply finding your smile again.
01482 425264 View 01482 425264
Photo of Anya Zinkivskay, MRes, MBACP, Counsellor
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS1
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in working with clients affected by complex trauma and PTSD (rooted in armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders particularly various manifestations of OCD, phobias and GAD, depression, neurodiverse development and function (ASD or specific learning difficulties), as well as loss, bereavement and addiction.
As private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20-year background in neuropsychology, I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. Using Trauma-informed practice I employ Evidence-based techniques such as CBT, ERP and EMDR, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim of growing self-awareness and offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe and empathic environment I have been supporting clients from across the UK and Europe.
I specialise in working with clients affected by complex trauma and PTSD (rooted in armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders particularly various manifestations of OCD, phobias and GAD, depression, neurodiverse development and function (ASD or specific learning difficulties), as well as loss, bereavement and addiction.
As private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20-year background in neuropsychology, I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. Using Trauma-informed practice I employ Evidence-based techniques such as CBT, ERP and EMDR, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim of growing self-awareness and offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe and empathic environment I have been supporting clients from across the UK and Europe.
01663 790112 View 01663 790112
1

See more therapy options for Leeds

Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.