Non-Judgemental Support for Addiction and Substance Use
Addiction can involve alcohol, other drugs, gambling or other behaviours that feel hard to control despite the harm they cause. It is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. It is a health issue that often develops alongside stress, trauma, anxiety, depression or other struggles.
Whether you are ready to stop, cut down, or simply want to understand your relationship with a substance or behaviour, our psychologists offer a respectful, non-judgemental space to explore what will work for you.
Signs It May Be Time to Reach Out
You do not need to have “hit rock bottom” to seek support. You might notice:
Difficulty Controlling Use: Using more or for longer than you intended, or being unable to cut down when you try.
Preoccupation and Cravings: Spending a lot of time thinking about, obtaining or recovering from use.
Impact on Life: Problems with relationships, work, finances, health or mood related to use.
Using to Cope: Turning to a substance or behaviour to manage stress, emotions, sleep or difficult memories.
Concern from Others: People close to you have expressed worry about your use.
If you are unsure whether it is a problem, an appointment can help you make sense of it.
How Therapy Can Help
Our psychologists use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help you:
Explore Your Goals at Your Own Pace: Talk openly about what you want, including any mixed feelings about change.
Understand Triggers and Patterns: Identify the situations, thoughts and emotions that lead to use.
Build Coping Skills and Prevent Relapse: Develop practical strategies for cravings, high-risk situations and setbacks.
Address Underlying Issues: Work on anxiety, depression, trauma or stress that may be driving use.
Work Alongside Your Health Team: Coordinate with your GP or other providers where appropriate.
Psychological therapy does not replace medical care. If stopping suddenly could be medically risky, for example with alcohol or certain medications, please speak with your GP or a medical provider first.
What to Expect
Therapy for addiction is collaborative and paced around you. It usually involves:
A Thorough Assessment: We talk openly and without judgement about your use, your goals and what has and has not helped before.
A Tailored Plan: We set goals that suit you, whether that is abstinence, reduced use or working on the things that sit behind it.
Practical Skills and Support: You will learn strategies to manage cravings and high-risk situations, and build routines and supports that protect your recovery.
Reviewing Progress: We regularly check in on how things are going and adjust the approach as needed, so therapy continues to fit your goals.
How to Access the Service
To begin therapy, please get in touch with our friendly administrative team via our contact page, phone, or email address and we will send you an intake form and our information sheet and consent form to start the intake process.
You do not need a referral to book an initial appointment, however you may want to discuss your needs with your general practitioner (GP) to determine if you qualify for Medicare funding, which can cover up to ten sessions with a Mental Health Care Plan. In such cases, you would need a referral. Additionally, private health insurance rebates may be available through your provider.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000. For 24/7 crisis support in Australia, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.