Addictions
We specialize in the treatment of the following addictions:
- Alcohol
- Cocaine
- Video game and internet
Video game addictions are a fast growing problem in our modern society, and finding the right treatment can be challenging. I am up to date on the current research and best practices in this field and offer one of the few programs available for this problem. I look forward to helping you or your family with this problem!
Addictions are behaviours (eg. drinking, gambling, gaming) that have gotten out of control and become harmful to the individual and those around them. The effects of an addiction are usually first noticed by others and may be denied by the addict. Some addicts wait until they hit “rock bottom” before they seek help; unfortunately at that point it isn’t just the addiction we have to treat, but also the damaged or lost relationships, property, and physical and mental health.
Our addiction program is evidence based and individualized for each client. The program consists of 10 weekly sessions, and involves:
- Comprehensive assessments and feedback
- Goal setting and evaluation of progress
- Motivational enhancement, skill building, relapse prevention
- Discovery of triggers, strengths, and weaknesses and preparation for short, mid, and long-term success
- Brief psychotherapy addressing reasons behind the addiction
Additional sessions or aftercare follow up can be set up as needed at the end of the program.
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FAQ's
- How do I know if someone has an addiction?
- I have a problem, but I’m not ready to quit! Can I moderate or reduce instead of quitting?
- Someone I know has a problem but refuses to get help, what can I do?
Q: How do I know if someone has an addiction?
A: There are many different subtances and behaviours that one can become addicted to (e.g. drinking, gambling, sex, cigarettes, video games, etc.), but addictions share certain qualities (It is not necessary for someone to experience all of the following symptoms):
- The Behaviour is repetitive and automatic (compulsive)
- Most addictions acquire an automatic and compulsive quality. There is a sense of the mind going on “autopilot” during the activity; people can sometimes have no sense of time until the activity is over.
- The behaviour usually becomes linked with places, people, events, or moods. For example, a person may automatically light up a cigarette when drinking, use drugs when angry or sad, or want to use when with certain individuals.
- The behaviour is continued despite knowledge that it is harmful
- At some point, most addicts realize their behaviour has gotten out of control and they try to stop or cut back. Unfortunately they find themselves unable to, and compensate for this failure by rationalizing (e.g. “I can quit whenever I want", "it’s really not harmful", "others don’t understand"). Alternatively, some people quit for a short period (week to a month) to “prove” that they can quit, then go right back to the behaviour.
- The cult of secrecy
- Most addicts hide their activities from friends and family. As a rule of thumb, if you have to hide it, then you know you have a problem even if you aren’t admitting it to yourself.
- The behaviour replaces healthier activities
- Addictions are time consuming. Eventually healthy activities are pushed out (sports, work, school, time spent with non-using friends, time with family etc.).
Q: Ok, I have a problem, but I’m not ready to quit! Can I moderate or reduce instead of quitting?
A: Scientific evidence shows that some addicts can learn to moderate their behaviour and gain control over it. However, this is extremely difficult and in most cases not recommended. Dr. Vakili will work with my clients at their level of commitment and we will set goals together. We will then evaluate these goals and adjust them as needed. Fear of not being ready to quit should never stop you from seeking help! Remember, you don’t seek therapy to be judged, but to be helped!
Q: Someone I know has a problem but refuses to get help, what can I do?
A: You’re not alone! Unless they have hit “rock bottom” addicts will usually deny they have a problem. Usually they don’t believe the label “addict” applies to them ("I can quit if I wanted to"). Some addicts feel a great deal of shame, which sometimes comes out as anger, and keeps them from being able to talk to loved ones or seek help.
Phrase your concerns gently; avoid personal attacks. Say things like “I’m worried about you”, “our relationship is suffering”, “let’s get some help and turn things around” rather than “You’re an alcoholic” or “you’re ruining your life”. Statements that create feelings of resentment, guilt, anger, or frustration can backfire and make the addict want to use more! Feel free to contact Dr. Vakili for additional guidance.