We offer compassionate, personalised support for those facing addiction, helping to address its root causes and any related mental health challenges. Through evidence-based talking therapies, we work together to break unhelpful cycles and restore a sense of control and well-being.
What is Addiction?
Addiction can be thought of as a neuropsychological disorder and is characterised by an intense desire to engage in rewarding stimuli or behaviours, despite negative consequences. Stimuli can include substances such as alcohol, ketamine and nicotine, while behaviours can include shopping, sex and gambling. The reasons for addiction are complex and result from a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors.
Addiction changes the brain’s overall structure and function, and its ability to regulate reward, motivation and self-control. The neurotransmitter dopamine is involved in addiction and can result in a person craving the substance or behaviour to provide the expected dopamine release or ‘high’.
During addiction, the brain becomes less able to produce natural dopamine, affecting a person’s ability to experience pleasure in day-to-day activities. This can lead to a cycle of repetitive behaviour, where the individual seeks to achieve a sense of euphoria through substance use or behaviour. It can be a difficult pattern to break, as it may also involve other mental health conditions such as PTSD and bipolar disorder. These might be pre-existing conditions, or they may develop at the same time or later. This is called dual diagnosis, or a co-occurring disorder, and refers to the co-existence of both an addiction and a mental health issue. The combined impact of the two can make the weight of both feel heavier and harder to manage.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
- Social withdrawal
- Lack of control
- Shame
- Mood swings
- Physical dependency and withdrawal
- Disturbed sleep
- Secrecy
- Cravings
- Money issues
Talking therapies can help a person uncover the sometimes deep-rooted reasons behind addictive behaviour.
Contact us through our website, phone, email, or book an introductory call through our online calendar. Just give us your name, email, phone number, preferred call times, and how you found us. Let us know your challenges and goals
After we get your message, we’ll call you to learn more about your needs and preferences.
Once we schedule your first consultation, we’ll send you all the necessary documents and you’ll be on your way to achieving your goals. We’re excited to support you every step of the way.
If you’re considering therapy or looking to refer someone, please complete the referral form below. This will help us understand your needs and ensure that we can match you with the most suitable therapist or service. Once submitted, our team will review the information and get in touch to discuss the next steps.
Experience effective therapeutic support conveniently via Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or telephone counselling in Northampton, Kettering, Milton Keynes, Leicester and the surrounding areas.