For women who have experienced traumatic life events and struggle with substance use, I offer a distinct treatment program using a model called Seeking Safety. This integrated treatment model was developed by Lisa M. Najavits, PhD in 1993. The Seeking Safety program involves structured psychotherapy sessions held on a weekly basis. Each session is focused on a different topic with content centered on cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal skill development.

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One-on-one therapy sessions are offered via telehealth online platform and are geared towards overcoming addiction in all forms, including destructive use of alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, shopping, or other behaviours. This treatment method is suited for women who have faced all types of trauma, such as surviving domestic violence, loss of a loved one, child abuse, accidents, violence, or other challenging personal experiences. The link between trauma and addiction can make recovery difficult to manage alone. Structured one-on-one weekly therapy sessions provide you support for lasting change. If you are interested in learning evidence-based strategies to put an end to impulsive addictive behaviour, then this program is for you. By committing to treatment for a minimum of 6 weeks, you can expect to experience the joy of creating a meaningful lifestyle that is in line with your chosen personal values.

 

I am a firm believer that each woman possesses the strength and ability to create lasting change in her life, this includes living free from all forms of addiction. My approach to substance abuse treatment involves three key elements: psychoeducation, open dialogue, and building patterns of committed action.

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Psychoeducation – involves learning about the basic functions of the human brain, including subjects such as habit-formation, and neuroplasticity (brain changeability). This will help you to gain a deeper understanding about the ways your thoughts, feelings, and action patterns affect recovery from addiction. 

 

Open dialogue – psychotherapy sessions provide a safe space for women to speak openly and unpack the difficult thoughts and emotions associated with their personal challenge with substance use. Open dialogue about the nature and origin of your substance use issues is an important part of overcoming shame, stigma, and guilt that often act as barriers to recovery.

 

Building patterns of committed action – My therapeutic approach involves supporting you to create a life of integrity that is true to your chosen values and in line with your personal goals. I offer cognitive behavioural therapy strategies to assist you to practice psychological flexibility, overcome substance misuse, and persist in behavioural change even in the face of setbacks.

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Contact me for a free consultation to learn more about ways that I can support you along your journey to addiction recovery.