It is a very traumatic experience when you discover that your partner is struggling with an addiction. Whether it's a substance abuse problem, or a sexual addiction, the shock you experience is unparalleled; especially if you find out that it has been going on for a long time without your knowledge. Perhaps that's the situation [...]
It's extremely difficult to have a partner who is an addict. Whether your partner suffers from a substance abuse problem, or his or her issues center around a behavioral addiction such as sex or gambling, you're constantly feeling confused, helpless and alone. You may want so desperately to be able to help, but you're not [...]
According to recent epidemiological studies, as many as 50% of individuals with mental health diagnosis also suffer from co-occurring substance abuse disorders. While substance dependence and withdrawal can actually be the cause of psychiatric symptoms, such as paranoia, hallucinations, delusions and panic attacks, many psychiatric conditions are pre-existing and are exacerbated, or even quieted momentarily, [...]
It is not easy for someone who struggles with an addiction to a substance (such as alcohol or drugs), or a behavior (such as sex or gambling) to admit that he or she needs counselling. In fact, most people who have an addiction, experience a great deal of fear and trepidation when they think [...]
Generally speaking, people who are addicted to sex tend to organize everything in their lives around sex. It's actually quite similar to the way drug addicts organize their lives around getting their next high. Perhaps you have concerns about yourself, and you're wondering if you might be dealing with a sexual addiction. Or, maybe you [...]
Sexual relationships are a part of every adult's life. Whether you are single, married or in any type of relationship, sexual activities and thoughts are normal and healthy parts of our psyche. Nevertheless, there is a line between healthy sexual behaviours and unhealthy sexual behaviours. Sexual Addiction is a very real phenomenon. It can be [...]
People fortunate enough not to grapple with powerful addictive disorders, may not understand just how powerful it is. Some people don't realize it is a chronic disease, much like diabetes, which must be treated and managed throughout one's life. Those who don't fully understand the power of this disease might think addicts should simply cease [...]
According to a widely used Stages of Change model that was first developed in the 1970s, coming to terms with your addiction and exploring options for treatment happens in the "Preparation Stage" of change. Perhaps you know you struggle with addiction, but you are not sure yet if you are ready to change; this would [...]
Growing Up Too Fast Having an addicted parent can put undue stress on a young, developing person. Oftentimes, the children of addicts have to take on more "adult" responsibilities from a young age, such as making their own meals and doing many of the chores around the house. In some cases, these children and their [...]
There is often a quiet moment when something begins to feel different. It might be the sense that certain behaviours are no longer entirely voluntary. It might be the realization that secrecy has started to replace openness, or that shame has begun to take up more space than comfort. For many people, this is the [...]
As a Registered Psychotherapist, Betzalel specializes in the treatment of trauma and addictions. He is trained in EMDR and is a Certified Multiple & Sex Addiction Therapist-Supervisor, providing evidence based treatment to individuals and their partners dealing with these types of challenges. To learn more, please click here.
