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Addiction Psychologists in Eastern Melbourne

If alcohol, drugs or certain behaviours are becoming increasingly difficult to control, you may find yourself thinking about them more, relying on them to cope or escape, or continuing despite the problems they are causing. When these patterns begin to take over or interfere with the life you want to live, psychological support can help you understand what is driving them and begin to make changes.

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What is Addiction?

Addiction can develop when the use of a substance or engagement in a particular behaviour becomes increasingly difficult to control, despite negative consequences. It can involve strong urges or cravings, spending increasing amounts of time thinking about or engaging in the behaviour, and repeated attempts to cut back or stop.

For some people, alcohol, drugs or particular behaviours can become a way of coping with difficult emotions, stress or experiences, or provide temporary relief or escape. Over time, the pattern can become increasingly entrenched and begin to affect relationships, work, health, finances or other important areas of life.

Addiction can vary considerably in its severity and impact. Understanding what is driving and maintaining the pattern can be an important part of making meaningful and sustainable changes.

Signs of Addiction

Addiction shows up differently for everyone, but there are some common threads. If a few of these feel familiar, it might be worth talking to someone.

  • Strong urges or cravings
  • Difficulty controlling how much you use
  • Repeatedly trying to cut back
  • Thinking about it much of the time
  • Needing more to get the same effect
  • Using it to cope or escape
  • Feeling unable to stop
  • Continuing despite negative consequences
  • Neglecting responsibilities or other priorities
  • Hiding or minimising your use
  • Relationships being affected
  • Feeling guilty or ashamed afterwards

Find a Psychologist for Addiction

These psychologists and therapists have experience supporting people with Addiction. Explore their profiles to find someone who feels like the right fit for you.

Enquire about seeing a psychologist for Addiction

Please feel welcome to share with us what’s been going on. We’ll take the time to understand your needs during a free 15-minute chat and help you identify the psychologist who’s the best match for you.

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