Addiction Therapists in Victoria, BC
This often leads to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, burnout and/or a sense of nihilism and lack of meaning.
Hello and welcome. I am a Master's level counsellor (RCC, MA - University of Victoria) who specializes in three main (often overlapping) areas: addictions, neurodivergence and complex trauma. I believe we are all on our own Hero's Journey, and as a therapist, my goal is to help you understand who you are and to help you make sense of what happened to you, so that you can move forward in a more conscious and intentional way. Beyond self-awareness, I believe the purpose of therapy is to transform the negative emotional patterns and beliefs that have been influencing your thoughts, behaviors and relationships.
This often leads to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, burnout and/or a sense of nihilism and lack of meaning.
Hello and welcome. I am a Master's level counsellor (RCC, MA - University of Victoria) who specializes in three main (often overlapping) areas: addictions, neurodivergence and complex trauma. I believe we are all on our own Hero's Journey, and as a therapist, my goal is to help you understand who you are and to help you make sense of what happened to you, so that you can move forward in a more conscious and intentional way. Beyond self-awareness, I believe the purpose of therapy is to transform the negative emotional patterns and beliefs that have been influencing your thoughts, behaviors and relationships.
I work with individuals who are experiencing, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship difficulties and substance misuse.
Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed, or depressed. Are you unhappy in your relationship. Are you or a family member abusing alcohol or mood-altering drugs. I offer a safe, relaxed and confidential environment to talk through your challenges and learn new coping strategies to build resilience in your life.
I work with individuals who are experiencing, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship difficulties and substance misuse.
Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed, or depressed. Are you unhappy in your relationship. Are you or a family member abusing alcohol or mood-altering drugs. I offer a safe, relaxed and confidential environment to talk through your challenges and learn new coping strategies to build resilience in your life.
We will work on identifying and changing patterns, environmental, and relational factors that are contributing to your drinking, substance use, and anxiety.
Weekend & Evening Availability. You might be facing a setback, and it can be hard to stay positive and not lose faith in your dreams. I know how you feel, I have been there too. I can help you create a plan to change your relationship with substances, anxiety, or a life transition, and move you towards a more fulfilling life. I offer in-person weekend sessions on saturdays and sundays, on evenings monday, thursday, and friday; and online sessions mondays and tuesdays in the afternoon.
We will work on identifying and changing patterns, environmental, and relational factors that are contributing to your drinking, substance use, and anxiety.
Weekend & Evening Availability. You might be facing a setback, and it can be hard to stay positive and not lose faith in your dreams. I know how you feel, I have been there too. I can help you create a plan to change your relationship with substances, anxiety, or a life transition, and move you towards a more fulfilling life. I offer in-person weekend sessions on saturdays and sundays, on evenings monday, thursday, and friday; and online sessions mondays and tuesdays in the afternoon.
David A Burns
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, MA, ICADC, CCS-AC, CCAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Is addiction is complicating your life? And your busy career, family and lifestyle won’t give you time to get better? We will help you to regain control of your chaos, reset your roadmap and get you back on track. We can also help when your life is affected by someone else’s addiction. We are evidence-based, confidential and effective.
Is addiction is complicating your life? And your busy career, family and lifestyle won’t give you time to get better? We will help you to regain control of your chaos, reset your roadmap and get you back on track. We can also help when your life is affected by someone else’s addiction. We are evidence-based, confidential and effective.
If you are suffering with trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
The deepest desire of a human is to belong…to be heard…and to be accepted… Sometimes life presents us with difficulties that are tough to manage or resolve on our own. There are times when we need to ask for help in order to find ourselves and to move forward. As a person and a counsellor, I know that life’s challenges can happen at all stages of our lives at multiple levels and that every situation is unique to us alone. Circumstances that can challenge how we think, how we perceive, how we believe and how we respond.
If you are suffering with trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
The deepest desire of a human is to belong…to be heard…and to be accepted… Sometimes life presents us with difficulties that are tough to manage or resolve on our own. There are times when we need to ask for help in order to find ourselves and to move forward. As a person and a counsellor, I know that life’s challenges can happen at all stages of our lives at multiple levels and that every situation is unique to us alone. Circumstances that can challenge how we think, how we perceive, how we believe and how we respond.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
Taking the first step to address challenges like anxiety, addiction, relationship struggles, and negative patterns can feel overwhelming—especially for those who are navigating stressful environments. From my own experience, I understand the importance of having a safe, non-judgmental space to process these issues. Our bodies, thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are powerful indicators of what’s happening beneath the surface. Together, we’ll explore how these elements connect, help you manage stress, and empower you to make meaningful changes that bring greater balance and fulfillment to your personal and professional life.
Taking the first step to address challenges like anxiety, addiction, relationship struggles, and negative patterns can feel overwhelming—especially for those who are navigating stressful environments. From my own experience, I understand the importance of having a safe, non-judgmental space to process these issues. Our bodies, thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are powerful indicators of what’s happening beneath the surface. Together, we’ll explore how these elements connect, help you manage stress, and empower you to make meaningful changes that bring greater balance and fulfillment to your personal and professional life.
Now Accepting New Clients - I help clients dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, substance misuse, and existential concerns.
Now Accepting New Clients - I help clients dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, substance misuse, and existential concerns.
Monica Freudenreich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
Waitlist for new clients
Since 2010, I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, substance use, and chronic health conditions including HIV.
"We are all wired for connection. It’s in our biology. As infants, our need for connection is about survival. As we grow older, connection means thriving – emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually. Connection is critical because we all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe that we belong and are valued for who we are” - Brene Brown At the core of my practice, I believe that a meaningful therapeutic connection can spark change. Talk therapy is a powerful tool to build and enhance acceptance, connection, and healing.
Since 2010, I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, substance use, and chronic health conditions including HIV.
"We are all wired for connection. It’s in our biology. As infants, our need for connection is about survival. As we grow older, connection means thriving – emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually. Connection is critical because we all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe that we belong and are valued for who we are” - Brene Brown At the core of my practice, I believe that a meaningful therapeutic connection can spark change. Talk therapy is a powerful tool to build and enhance acceptance, connection, and healing.
Counselling is a courageous step in the direction of positive change. As your therapist, I hold myself to providing the highest quality of service determined by the ethics and standards of my profession. Practicing from a place of compassion, non-judgment, curiosity, and respect, I strive to facilitate each client's innate capacity for positive growth and development. My clinical specializations include disordered eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
Counselling is a courageous step in the direction of positive change. As your therapist, I hold myself to providing the highest quality of service determined by the ethics and standards of my profession. Practicing from a place of compassion, non-judgment, curiosity, and respect, I strive to facilitate each client's innate capacity for positive growth and development. My clinical specializations include disordered eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
If you are suffering through anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
Sometimes life throws us a curve ball that we have a difficult time managing on our own. The good new is we don't have to. You have taking the first step. I know it can sometimes feel like there’s no way out and this is just the way you are, but I’m here to tell you, it’s not and there is. Together we are going to work to breakthrough the things that have been bringing you down, getting in your way, and holding you back –Collaboratively, we will work to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to live your best life possible. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental counselling experience.
If you are suffering through anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
Sometimes life throws us a curve ball that we have a difficult time managing on our own. The good new is we don't have to. You have taking the first step. I know it can sometimes feel like there’s no way out and this is just the way you are, but I’m here to tell you, it’s not and there is. Together we are going to work to breakthrough the things that have been bringing you down, getting in your way, and holding you back –Collaboratively, we will work to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to live your best life possible. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental counselling experience.
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My background is in cancer care, addiction, and workplace stress, with specializations in mood concerns (depression, anxiety), loss and grief (death, pet loss, unexpected life transitions, identity crises), health and illness (health anxiety, chronic pain), addiction ( substance use, recovery, behavioural), and trauma (veterans, first responders).
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless internal critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing this chaos of life alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in life.
My background is in cancer care, addiction, and workplace stress, with specializations in mood concerns (depression, anxiety), loss and grief (death, pet loss, unexpected life transitions, identity crises), health and illness (health anxiety, chronic pain), addiction ( substance use, recovery, behavioural), and trauma (veterans, first responders).
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless internal critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing this chaos of life alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in life.
Do you experience being held back from feeling fully alive or do you feel like your relationships aren’t achieving their fullest potential? Are your experiences living within the complexity of our world today creating difficulties for you or your relationships? I provide individual counselling and therapy for people seeking greater vitality in their lives. I have experience in supporting people recovering from trauma, problematic substance use, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. My skills provide an eclectic palate through which to engage an individual in creative processes of transformation.
Do you experience being held back from feeling fully alive or do you feel like your relationships aren’t achieving their fullest potential? Are your experiences living within the complexity of our world today creating difficulties for you or your relationships? I provide individual counselling and therapy for people seeking greater vitality in their lives. I have experience in supporting people recovering from trauma, problematic substance use, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. My skills provide an eclectic palate through which to engage an individual in creative processes of transformation.
I have over 17 years of counselling experience and work with anxiety and depression, ADHD, grief, loss, transition, stress, addiction and codependency.
Are you experiencing overwhelming emotions, unwanted thoughts, challenging relationships, codependency, ADHD, symptoms of trauma, unhelpful habits or addiction? You are not alone, anyone can benefit from counselling at some point in their lives; we all need help from time to time. Depression and anxiety are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can feel and can take away our motivation and joy in life. If you are feeling stuck in life, I can help by listening to your concerns and providing the support you need.
I have over 17 years of counselling experience and work with anxiety and depression, ADHD, grief, loss, transition, stress, addiction and codependency.
Are you experiencing overwhelming emotions, unwanted thoughts, challenging relationships, codependency, ADHD, symptoms of trauma, unhelpful habits or addiction? You are not alone, anyone can benefit from counselling at some point in their lives; we all need help from time to time. Depression and anxiety are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can feel and can take away our motivation and joy in life. If you are feeling stuck in life, I can help by listening to your concerns and providing the support you need.
Are you struggling with troubling issues in your important relationships? Not feeling heard or respected? Do you feel defensive, or attacked by your partner and can't trust or feel supported in your relationship. Or perhaps you're a man struggling with a drug, alcohol, gambling, internet or porn addiction that is consuming too much of your life. Do you have a teen that is struggling with confidence, anxiety and motivation? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety most of the time, and can't relax, or feel safe? These are all issues that I have successfully worked with in the past.
Are you struggling with troubling issues in your important relationships? Not feeling heard or respected? Do you feel defensive, or attacked by your partner and can't trust or feel supported in your relationship. Or perhaps you're a man struggling with a drug, alcohol, gambling, internet or porn addiction that is consuming too much of your life. Do you have a teen that is struggling with confidence, anxiety and motivation? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety most of the time, and can't relax, or feel safe? These are all issues that I have successfully worked with in the past.
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans friendly and accepting new clients! I am a settler from unceded Algonquin territory living on the traditional territory of the Dane-zaa Nation. I am a strong believer in social justice and I work with adults, teens, and families who want support with anxiety, depression, trauma, systemic oppression and bullying, substance use, family and relationship conflict, 2Slgbtqia+ identity, attachment wounds, and whatever you feel you need support with! I love nature and outdoor sports, expressing myself through art, and laughing with friends. Humour and playing help me feel alive and most like myself.
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans friendly and accepting new clients! I am a settler from unceded Algonquin territory living on the traditional territory of the Dane-zaa Nation. I am a strong believer in social justice and I work with adults, teens, and families who want support with anxiety, depression, trauma, systemic oppression and bullying, substance use, family and relationship conflict, 2Slgbtqia+ identity, attachment wounds, and whatever you feel you need support with! I love nature and outdoor sports, expressing myself through art, and laughing with friends. Humour and playing help me feel alive and most like myself.
I earned my Masters degree in clinical psychology in California where I received specialized training in addiction, trauma, anxiety, and the unique struggles of people in the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am an RCC specializing in treating addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and interpersonal issues. My approach is rooted in the belief that a greater awareness of where our actions and reactions come from can give us the power to change. I work with my clients to understand how their attachment styles and life experiences have informed how they relate to others and to themselves. With this knowledge we work together to address unwanted behaviours and implement new coping skills for emotional regulation and communication.
I earned my Masters degree in clinical psychology in California where I received specialized training in addiction, trauma, anxiety, and the unique struggles of people in the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am an RCC specializing in treating addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and interpersonal issues. My approach is rooted in the belief that a greater awareness of where our actions and reactions come from can give us the power to change. I work with my clients to understand how their attachment styles and life experiences have informed how they relate to others and to themselves. With this knowledge we work together to address unwanted behaviours and implement new coping skills for emotional regulation and communication.
I can help you overcome substance misuse, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties and trauma.
I have 25 years of experience and I can help you achieve your goals. I am knowledgeable and skilled in a variety of effective counseling practices including psycho-dynamic, solution- focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I will work with you to find the most effective approach that is best suited to your situation. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and will provide you with a safe place to explore your issues. My focus is on you the whole person. My approach is active, goal-directed and collaborative. I can help you feel better and gain a new perspective.
I can help you overcome substance misuse, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties and trauma.
I have 25 years of experience and I can help you achieve your goals. I am knowledgeable and skilled in a variety of effective counseling practices including psycho-dynamic, solution- focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I will work with you to find the most effective approach that is best suited to your situation. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and will provide you with a safe place to explore your issues. My focus is on you the whole person. My approach is active, goal-directed and collaborative. I can help you feel better and gain a new perspective.
Plum Blossom Counselling Inc.
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT, SEP, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist; for problematic sexual behaviour, Internet Gaming Disorder, a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist for partners of those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour, and I use Somatic Experiencing, CPT and Prolonged Exposure, and to help individuals heal from trauma including complex trauma.
Do you feel you’re not living the life that you want for yourself? Do you find that you repeat patterns of behaviour that you realize aren’t serving you and are keeping you from meaningful connections and intimate relationships? I can support you to heal from chemical and behavioural addictions (compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, intimacy disorders, internet gaming), childhood, attachment, and/or family of origin wounds, unhealthy financial behaviours, and mental health (depression, anxiety, etc.). I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, sexual trauma, and First Responders.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist; for problematic sexual behaviour, Internet Gaming Disorder, a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist for partners of those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour, and I use Somatic Experiencing, CPT and Prolonged Exposure, and to help individuals heal from trauma including complex trauma.
Do you feel you’re not living the life that you want for yourself? Do you find that you repeat patterns of behaviour that you realize aren’t serving you and are keeping you from meaningful connections and intimate relationships? I can support you to heal from chemical and behavioural addictions (compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, intimacy disorders, internet gaming), childhood, attachment, and/or family of origin wounds, unhealthy financial behaviours, and mental health (depression, anxiety, etc.). I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, sexual trauma, and First Responders.
Traditional addiction treatment programs don't work (over 80% relapse rate within 2 months) and are very expensive ($25,000/month or more).
I am an experienced clinical counsellor with a Master's degree who specializes in addiction. I have over 25 years of professional experience in this field and over 35 years of personal recovery from addiction myself. I am a published author and have created dozens of videos on addiction and recovery. I was also an instructor at a college for Indigenous counsellors and have also developed some of their curriculum. I have travelled across the country, and at times internationally, giving talks on addiction and training other counsellors. I have also filled in for such notable speakers as Dr Gabor Matte.
Traditional addiction treatment programs don't work (over 80% relapse rate within 2 months) and are very expensive ($25,000/month or more).
I am an experienced clinical counsellor with a Master's degree who specializes in addiction. I have over 25 years of professional experience in this field and over 35 years of personal recovery from addiction myself. I am a published author and have created dozens of videos on addiction and recovery. I was also an instructor at a college for Indigenous counsellors and have also developed some of their curriculum. I have travelled across the country, and at times internationally, giving talks on addiction and training other counsellors. I have also filled in for such notable speakers as Dr Gabor Matte.
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What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.
How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.
How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.
How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.