Substance Abuse is a scary term. It is a phenomenon that affects most of us in one form or another. You may be directly or indirectly affected by friends, family or loved ones.

It can feel overwhelming and hopeless. Simply put, substance abuse is when you find yourself repeating the same actions or behaviours over and over again despite negative consequences. If this sounds familiar you may be experiencing substance abuse without even realizing it. You may not want to put the “substance abuse” label on your situation. That’s ok too. As long as you see the negative behaviour and want to change it, we are on a roll! Substance abuse comes in many forms. The most common substance abuse we are familiar with are alcohol, drugs, gambling and sex. Substance abuse can also be prescription drugs, relationships, co-dependency, food, internet or screen abuse, pornography, smoking, shopping, and even chaos, the list can go on. Commonly there will be underlying troublesome issues that have kicked off the substance abuse or make it more difficult to deal with.

Those are core issues that will be looked at when it is safe for you. No rush, no pressure.

At Take Heart Counselling, Lavene will first help you through the fear factor. Finding a thought process to accept the substance abuse and build confidence to challenge it; one that suits you personally. She will work with you on eliminating the shame and guilt you may be feeling because of substance abuse and compulsive behaviours. A key to recovery is first understanding the process and being willing to want change. Lavene will walk with you, educate you and support you through your journey to wellness. She will provide tools and ideas that will keep you on track and deal with life’s challenges. All that “stuff” that looks like a mountain too big to climb will become small in no time. You will find hope. Don’t be shy, you are worthy of recovery and a happy life.

Free 30-minute Consultation Call 

50 Minute Sessions - $125 for individuals or $135 for couples/families.

(Pricing as of Jan 1, 2024. Subject to GST.)

I uniquely offer between-session support via text and emergency phone calls believing the most important part of healing happens between the sessions.