Addiction & Recovery

Addiction is a mental health disorder that impacts families and communities every day. Addiction is the continued use of substances/activities despite the negative effects. The actions may give temporary confidence or validation lacking in one’s life. But without addressing the problem, the behavior will not stop.

Addiction changes the “brain's reward system.” This part of the brain handles feelings of pleasure. The pleasure messages create thoughts such as, “I deserve this,” or “Let’s do that again.” Continued use triggers the reward system and creates a cycle of destructive behavior.

Common addictions include but are not limited to:

• Drug or alcohol abuse

• Gambling

• Internet

• Shopping

• Food

Active addiction can create blind spots, counseling can help. Addiction can be exhausting and one should enter recovery alone. My approach of proven evidence-based therapies provides coping skills for lasting change.