When drink has taken over, counselling with Margaret can be the first step in stopping.
Counselling for Addiction
Addiction is thought of as a chronic, relapsing brain disease. It is characterized by compulsive and repetitive behaviour which is carried on despite very harmful consequences. It is important to note that the person carrying out the behaviour may not be aware of the extent to which they are engaging in it, the amount they crave it, the lengths they are going to obtain their susstance of abuse or the resultant damage being done to themselves and those close to them.
Having first-hand experience of addiction, I am particularly able to connect with, understand and build a relationship of trust with those suffering through addiction of any form – either the addict themselves or others affected by them.
In dealing with addiction, it is important to recognise that it is a progressive, but also an insidious, illness with serious consequences. Therefore, in my approach, I am direct, but compassionate, so that recovery can best be facilitated. In this way, I have successfully journeyed with the many clients through their recovery. However, if I feel that the addict is too entrenched in denial, or that their illness requires third party, minute-by-minute support, I will refer him / her on to a treatment centre.
In my work with young addicts, I address the issue through a number of channels. First, I support the parents and help them to develop the specific parenting skills required to augment the recovery of their child. I also work with the child affected to help them understand the impact their addiction is having on their life and to develop a recovery plan. I will journey with the addicted young person as they progress through their recovery. My main focus is on recovering the young person’s self-esteem and strengthening their ability to personally manage themselves as they move forward. This facilitates their ability to make healthy choices for themselves and enables them to learn how to abstain from their addictive behaviour.
No matter how entrenched the addiction appears to be, I believe that abstinence is possible. I work with the affected person to give them the best chance of recovery.
Having first-hand experience of addiction, I am particularly able to connect with, understand and build a relationship of trust with those suffering through addiction of any form – either the addict themselves or others affected by them.
In dealing with addiction, it is important to recognise that it is a progressive, but also an insidious, illness with serious consequences. Therefore, in my approach, I am direct, but compassionate, so that recovery can best be facilitated. In this way, I have successfully journeyed with the many clients through their recovery. However, if I feel that the addict is too entrenched in denial, or that their illness requires third party, minute-by-minute support, I will refer him / her on to a treatment centre.
Dealing with Addiction in children and young people
Addiction, being one of the most critical problems of our modern world, affects children as much as adults. Young people are becoming more dependent on phones, online social networks, electronic equipment, food, cigarettes, and illicit substances. I understand the impact this has on the young person, their family and their lives in general.In my work with young addicts, I address the issue through a number of channels. First, I support the parents and help them to develop the specific parenting skills required to augment the recovery of their child. I also work with the child affected to help them understand the impact their addiction is having on their life and to develop a recovery plan. I will journey with the addicted young person as they progress through their recovery. My main focus is on recovering the young person’s self-esteem and strengthening their ability to personally manage themselves as they move forward. This facilitates their ability to make healthy choices for themselves and enables them to learn how to abstain from their addictive behaviour.
No matter how entrenched the addiction appears to be, I believe that abstinence is possible. I work with the affected person to give them the best chance of recovery.
