Although I enjoy and am trained to deal with a wide variety of individual and couple issues, I have found my way to a specialization. The focus of my work has been supporting families where one or more members are substance involved. This may include the abuse or dependence of illicit drugs, prescription medication, alcohol and/or gambling.
For a long time it has been noted that families play a central role in the treatment of many health problems; substance use and addiction is no different. A person who is substance involved is more likely to succeed at reducing their use or abstaining with the support of family and friends. This being said, family members are often ready to seek help at different times which makes the process tricky. Regardless, if you are the one who is substance involved or are someone who is concerned about the substance use of another; education and therapy are vitally important to your emotional, mental, physical, spiritual, financial and social well-being.
Family involvement in substance use treatment is still not as widely incorporated into the treatment system as it could be and for this reason I am dedicated to working with families who are seeking support, education and counselling to deal with their concerns. Family and friends often experience many stressors, live in constant fear for their loved ones safety and have to take on more responsibility during daily life (for example: child care, household and financial responsibilities etc.). It is for these reasons (and many more) that it is so vital to your own health to ensure you get the support you need.
Through psychotherapy and education it is possible to address the following issues and concerns:
If you recognize any of these issues or concerns in your own life or the life of a loved one, then please do not hesitate to contact me for a free 20 minute phone consultation to discuss whether my services feel like the right fit for you.
ConnexOntario Health Service Information – Helplines and Treatment Directories
The Center For Motivation and Change
Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario
St Joseph’s Health Centre Toronto – Mental Health and Addiction Services (child, adolescent, adult)
Centre For Addiction and Mental Health – Addiction Services
University Health Network – Mental Health and Addiction Services (Toronto General, Toronto Western)
Women’s College Hospital – Substance Use Services/Addiction Medicine
Breakaway Addiction Services – Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment Services
Access Point – Centralized point to apply for individual mental health, addictions support services and supportive housing.
Mood Disorders Association of Ontario – Peer, students and young adults, online, and workplace programs
Grief Recovery After Substance Passing – Information and Support Groups
Family Health Teams – Mississauga and Halton
The George Hull Centre for Children and Families – Clear Directions Substance Abuse Program