Addiction Therapists in Toronto, ON
I counsel and support individuals, couples and families who feel stuck in life or who have mental health or marriage issues. Anxiety, depression, addiction and family issues are my main focus. My training in social work, addictions, family therapy and personal experience enables me to help families support each other. Mental health issues have been part of my life and our families. We know from experience what helps us recover.
I counsel and support individuals, couples and families who feel stuck in life or who have mental health or marriage issues. Anxiety, depression, addiction and family issues are my main focus. My training in social work, addictions, family therapy and personal experience enables me to help families support each other. Mental health issues have been part of my life and our families. We know from experience what helps us recover.
As a therapist, my fundamental goal is to help and encourage you to look at the difficult parts of your life that are holding you back, while simultaneously helping you to cultivate the skills to live your life in a manner that is mentally healthy and purpose driven. I work with people struggling with ADHD, addiction (specializing in cannabis), anxiety, and those having difficulty in their marriage or settling into a committed relationship. I also like to help people who feel lost in their life or who feel unfulfilled by their current profession and who hope to bring more meaning into their lives.
As a therapist, my fundamental goal is to help and encourage you to look at the difficult parts of your life that are holding you back, while simultaneously helping you to cultivate the skills to live your life in a manner that is mentally healthy and purpose driven. I work with people struggling with ADHD, addiction (specializing in cannabis), anxiety, and those having difficulty in their marriage or settling into a committed relationship. I also like to help people who feel lost in their life or who feel unfulfilled by their current profession and who hope to bring more meaning into their lives.
With over 9 years of dedicated service in community residential mental health and addiction treatment centres, coupled with substantial expertise in clinical treatment settings and hospitals, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice.
Change can be scary, however, growth lies in discomfort. Leveraging a diverse set of techniques refined over years of clinical practice, I strive to uncover the underlying issues that may be influencing your overall wellbeing. Whether the problem feels small or big, old or new; I am open to bringing it into the room for closer observation and deeper discovery. Everyone has the capacity to change their lives. I recognize that we are each more than just our family, our relationships, our biology, or our circumstances, but also understand that our connection to each of these may profoundly impact our sense of wellbeing.
With over 9 years of dedicated service in community residential mental health and addiction treatment centres, coupled with substantial expertise in clinical treatment settings and hospitals, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice.
Change can be scary, however, growth lies in discomfort. Leveraging a diverse set of techniques refined over years of clinical practice, I strive to uncover the underlying issues that may be influencing your overall wellbeing. Whether the problem feels small or big, old or new; I am open to bringing it into the room for closer observation and deeper discovery. Everyone has the capacity to change their lives. I recognize that we are each more than just our family, our relationships, our biology, or our circumstances, but also understand that our connection to each of these may profoundly impact our sense of wellbeing.
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples from diverse and often marginalized backgrounds at respected organizations including the Canadian Mental Health Association, Family Services Toronto, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and most recently, Breakaway Addiction Services, where I also clinically supervised other therapists.
Choosing the right therapist for yourself can feel daunting. A trusting therapeutic relationship is the single most important factor in successful outcomes. Meeting face-to-face is the best way to tell whether a therapist is the right fit for you. I provide an initial 30-minute consult free-of-charge to help you make an informed choice. My psychodynamic approach is client-centred and strengths-based. This is complemented with a variety of evidence-based techniques to help build positive change in the present, while engaging in your quest for healthier relationships with loved ones, and most importantly, yourself.
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples from diverse and often marginalized backgrounds at respected organizations including the Canadian Mental Health Association, Family Services Toronto, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and most recently, Breakaway Addiction Services, where I also clinically supervised other therapists.
Choosing the right therapist for yourself can feel daunting. A trusting therapeutic relationship is the single most important factor in successful outcomes. Meeting face-to-face is the best way to tell whether a therapist is the right fit for you. I provide an initial 30-minute consult free-of-charge to help you make an informed choice. My psychodynamic approach is client-centred and strengths-based. This is complemented with a variety of evidence-based techniques to help build positive change in the present, while engaging in your quest for healthier relationships with loved ones, and most importantly, yourself.
Eryl McCaffrey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MACP, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S
In addition to mindfulness-based practices like breathwork, meditation, and journaling, I use CBT, somatics, polyvagal theory, ACT, parts work, and inner child work to support individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, grief, trauma, and general stress.
If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from yourself, you have come to the right place. Let me walk alongside you and offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and learn new, empowering ways of responding to your challenges. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing. I've been where you are and I know this: you don't have to do this "work" alone.
In addition to mindfulness-based practices like breathwork, meditation, and journaling, I use CBT, somatics, polyvagal theory, ACT, parts work, and inner child work to support individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, grief, trauma, and general stress.
If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from yourself, you have come to the right place. Let me walk alongside you and offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and learn new, empowering ways of responding to your challenges. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing. I've been where you are and I know this: you don't have to do this "work" alone.
TM Addiction & Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC, MATS, CACII
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M9A
Just as isolation is a large component of addiction, personal recovery relies on connection.
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance use/abuse/dependence? Feeling stuck/trapped/hopeless? I can relate. With more than 20 years lived experience on the path of personal recovery, for over a decade I have been assisting individuals change the trajectory of their lives.
Just as isolation is a large component of addiction, personal recovery relies on connection.
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance use/abuse/dependence? Feeling stuck/trapped/hopeless? I can relate. With more than 20 years lived experience on the path of personal recovery, for over a decade I have been assisting individuals change the trajectory of their lives.
Leena
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5L (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to her clinical work, she researches faith-based barriers to accessing mental health and substance use treatment services within ethnic communities.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
In addition to her clinical work, she researches faith-based barriers to accessing mental health and substance use treatment services within ethnic communities.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
If you are struggling to manage your relationship with someone who experiences addiction, having a difficult time managing your mental health and diabetes, or just want to find some peace in your every day life, I'm here to listen and support you through this time.
I am a Registered Social Worker working in private practice as a therapist, providing in-person therapy in downtown Toronto and online virtual therapy throughout Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia. I live with type one diabetes, and specialise in providing mental health support to others living with diabetes and other autoimmune disorders. I am also a counsellor with the Family Care Team at one of Ontario’s largest and longest-standing addiction treatment providers, supporting family members, children, and loved ones who have been impacted by someone else’s addiction.
If you are struggling to manage your relationship with someone who experiences addiction, having a difficult time managing your mental health and diabetes, or just want to find some peace in your every day life, I'm here to listen and support you through this time.
I am a Registered Social Worker working in private practice as a therapist, providing in-person therapy in downtown Toronto and online virtual therapy throughout Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia. I live with type one diabetes, and specialise in providing mental health support to others living with diabetes and other autoimmune disorders. I am also a counsellor with the Family Care Team at one of Ontario’s largest and longest-standing addiction treatment providers, supporting family members, children, and loved ones who have been impacted by someone else’s addiction.
Addiction | Anxiety | Depression - Michelle Reis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5H
Together, we can tackle the challenges of addiction you're facing, helping you move forward with renewed confidence and a stronger connection to your inner strengths and values.
Accepting New Clients! With 8 years of experience in addiction counseling, I understand how important it is to find someone you trust. Whether you're battling addiction, navigating recovery, or feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, I’m here to help. Together, we can turn your struggles into growth, guiding you toward a more empowered and fulfilling life. No challenge is too big or too small—I’m committed to helping you find relief from that pain you currently feel.
Together, we can tackle the challenges of addiction you're facing, helping you move forward with renewed confidence and a stronger connection to your inner strengths and values.
Accepting New Clients! With 8 years of experience in addiction counseling, I understand how important it is to find someone you trust. Whether you're battling addiction, navigating recovery, or feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, I’m here to help. Together, we can turn your struggles into growth, guiding you toward a more empowered and fulfilling life. No challenge is too big or too small—I’m committed to helping you find relief from that pain you currently feel.
Giorgio Ilacqua Psychology Professional Corp.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S (Online Only)
In his clinic he is providing psychological services to people involved in motor vehicle, bicycles and pedestrian accidents, injured workers, first responders, as well as people with major mental health challenges, substance use and traumatic experiences.
Dr. Giorgio Ilacqua and his associates can provide a full range of online psychotherapy treatment. We also provide assessments for substance use, WSIB, car accidents, people in trouble with the justice system, and private referrals. Personalized psychological services can be arranged based on your needs. We help adults and adolescents.
In his clinic he is providing psychological services to people involved in motor vehicle, bicycles and pedestrian accidents, injured workers, first responders, as well as people with major mental health challenges, substance use and traumatic experiences.
Dr. Giorgio Ilacqua and his associates can provide a full range of online psychotherapy treatment. We also provide assessments for substance use, WSIB, car accidents, people in trouble with the justice system, and private referrals. Personalized psychological services can be arranged based on your needs. We help adults and adolescents.
Addiction | BPD | Childhood - Daria Coulombe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5H
I help clients dealing with Addiction, BPD, Depression, Anxiety, Emotion Regulation, and identifying coping mechanisms.
I work with people who are struggling with intense emotions like mood swings, emptiness, or deep sadness, and those who feel stuck in unhealthy relationships or life patterns. Some of my clients have faced difficult past experiences that make it hard to trust others, feel secure, or connect deeply in relationships. They might carry a sense of shame or guilt, often feel anxious or on edge, and struggle with feeling safe or understood. Many also turn to substances as a way to cope with these overwhelming feelings, leading to challenges with addiction. In addition, they may be dealing with big life changes.
I help clients dealing with Addiction, BPD, Depression, Anxiety, Emotion Regulation, and identifying coping mechanisms.
I work with people who are struggling with intense emotions like mood swings, emptiness, or deep sadness, and those who feel stuck in unhealthy relationships or life patterns. Some of my clients have faced difficult past experiences that make it hard to trust others, feel secure, or connect deeply in relationships. They might carry a sense of shame or guilt, often feel anxious or on edge, and struggle with feeling safe or understood. Many also turn to substances as a way to cope with these overwhelming feelings, leading to challenges with addiction. In addition, they may be dealing with big life changes.
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Registered Social Worker, EdD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G (Online Only)
In my various roles as husband, father, friend, fellow "ADHD'er" (inattentive type), I understand the difficulties we can all encounter within ourselves and relationships. I enjoy engaging with adults (18+) who seek change ( for example: anxiety, relationships, adopting new habits, addictions) and the thought of focused, short term counselling speaks to them and their motivations. Concerning ADHD, I welcome clients who are formally diagnosed, or self diagnosed! In my work we don't just focus on "organization", we explore: views of self, anxiety, lack of "self trust", addiction, and emotional regulation within ADHD.
In my various roles as husband, father, friend, fellow "ADHD'er" (inattentive type), I understand the difficulties we can all encounter within ourselves and relationships. I enjoy engaging with adults (18+) who seek change ( for example: anxiety, relationships, adopting new habits, addictions) and the thought of focused, short term counselling speaks to them and their motivations. Concerning ADHD, I welcome clients who are formally diagnosed, or self diagnosed! In my work we don't just focus on "organization", we explore: views of self, anxiety, lack of "self trust", addiction, and emotional regulation within ADHD.
I help youth and adults navigate challenges related to: Substance use & addiction; Queer, transgender, & nonbinary identity exploration and concerns; Trauma/PTSD; Relationship difficulties; ADHD and/or Autism; Anxiety & Depression.
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
I help youth and adults navigate challenges related to: Substance use & addiction; Queer, transgender, & nonbinary identity exploration and concerns; Trauma/PTSD; Relationship difficulties; ADHD and/or Autism; Anxiety & Depression.
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
My approach is rooted in compassion, evidence-based techniques, and a deep understanding of the complex nature of addiction and recovery.
I help individuals struggling with substance abuse, intimate partner violence, sexual offences or other types of legal involvement. I also help individuals with concerns around their sexual thoughts, feelings or behaviours through a compassionate and non-judgmental approach. Reaching out for help can be difficult but everyone deserves an opportunity to find a new way forward and to live a life that is healthy, happy and safe.
My approach is rooted in compassion, evidence-based techniques, and a deep understanding of the complex nature of addiction and recovery.
I help individuals struggling with substance abuse, intimate partner violence, sexual offences or other types of legal involvement. I also help individuals with concerns around their sexual thoughts, feelings or behaviours through a compassionate and non-judgmental approach. Reaching out for help can be difficult but everyone deserves an opportunity to find a new way forward and to live a life that is healthy, happy and safe.
Scott A Barter
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, BComm, CCAC, CACCF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S
Overcoming your addictions is possible! Please feel free to visit my website www.
Are alcohol and/or drugs interfering with your life? Are you using substances when you are depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for ways to improve relationships, mood, and personal well-being? Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced professional counsellor to make positive changes in your life? Utilizing evidence-based therapeutic methods (CBT, MI, and Mindfulness), my private practice will help you examine your personal goals, work towards empowering you to address your substance use to build healthy relationships, sustain and maintain sobriety, and to make positive changes in your life.
Overcoming your addictions is possible! Please feel free to visit my website www.
Are alcohol and/or drugs interfering with your life? Are you using substances when you are depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for ways to improve relationships, mood, and personal well-being? Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced professional counsellor to make positive changes in your life? Utilizing evidence-based therapeutic methods (CBT, MI, and Mindfulness), my private practice will help you examine your personal goals, work towards empowering you to address your substance use to build healthy relationships, sustain and maintain sobriety, and to make positive changes in your life.
Joanne Kirzner, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5M (Online Only)
I am a warm, engaging, insightful and eclectic psychotherapist with a keen interest in people and the process of change. I have built my career in the mental health system, working with diverse populations who present with anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, family of origin issues, bi-polar disorder, etc. I also have a background in addiction work and work from both a harm-reduction and abstinence based model. We start the therapy process where you are. Some of the modalities I employ are CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy and narrative therapy.
I am a warm, engaging, insightful and eclectic psychotherapist with a keen interest in people and the process of change. I have built my career in the mental health system, working with diverse populations who present with anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, family of origin issues, bi-polar disorder, etc. I also have a background in addiction work and work from both a harm-reduction and abstinence based model. We start the therapy process where you are. Some of the modalities I employ are CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy and narrative therapy.
Interventionist for Addictions
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CAI , RPS
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4C
This gentle approach is geared towards a person suffering with addiction to be part of the solution, therefore empowering them to make the decision to begin the process of recovery.
My name is Catherine MacDonald, I am a Certified Addiction Interventionist. I have a wealth of knowledge and life experience that allows me to help families transition from the chaos created by addiction and addictive behaviours of a loved one, towards a new beginning and a healthier family lifestyle for everyone. I will guide and support you through the intervention process, helping your loved one get the help they need and provide continuing care and support for families and friends.
This gentle approach is geared towards a person suffering with addiction to be part of the solution, therefore empowering them to make the decision to begin the process of recovery.
My name is Catherine MacDonald, I am a Certified Addiction Interventionist. I have a wealth of knowledge and life experience that allows me to help families transition from the chaos created by addiction and addictive behaviours of a loved one, towards a new beginning and a healthier family lifestyle for everyone. I will guide and support you through the intervention process, helping your loved one get the help they need and provide continuing care and support for families and friends.
Most of us at some point in our lives need someone to talk to and someone to listen to us, someone that can provide us with a safe place to just be; a sanctuary that allows us to be with our feelings, to get in touch with our needs and our hearts. Whether it is relationship difficulties, job loss, illness, death of a loved one, addiction or mental health concerns that have brought you to my website; all these life transitions can tax our ability to cope in healthy ways leaving us stressed, sleepless and overwhelmed while the rest of our lives seemingly unravel.
Most of us at some point in our lives need someone to talk to and someone to listen to us, someone that can provide us with a safe place to just be; a sanctuary that allows us to be with our feelings, to get in touch with our needs and our hearts. Whether it is relationship difficulties, job loss, illness, death of a loved one, addiction or mental health concerns that have brought you to my website; all these life transitions can tax our ability to cope in healthy ways leaving us stressed, sleepless and overwhelmed while the rest of our lives seemingly unravel.
With ten years of experience supporting and treating individuals with both mental health and substance use problems, I am both client centered and recovery oriented.
A Concurrent Disorder occurs when an individual is experiencing a mental health problem and a substance use problem at the same time. As a therapist working with both of these issues, I can support you with enhancing your motivation for change, identifying triggers, regulating emotions and urges, and with relapse prevention planning.
With ten years of experience supporting and treating individuals with both mental health and substance use problems, I am both client centered and recovery oriented.
A Concurrent Disorder occurs when an individual is experiencing a mental health problem and a substance use problem at the same time. As a therapist working with both of these issues, I can support you with enhancing your motivation for change, identifying triggers, regulating emotions and urges, and with relapse prevention planning.
Adam Busch
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSFT, SSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4X (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and welcome to my private practice for Ontario residents. I am a registered social worker (RSW). I have over 10 years of experience helping people with: recovery from addiction, managing anxiety and mood (depression), recovering from trauma (PTSD), self-esteem, navigating stress, burnout, managing a diagnosis, grief and loss, improving relationships and communication skills, sexual health and wellbeing, to name a few. I have worked for over 20 years providing services for: diverse LGBTQ+ communities; and over 10 years for individuals with, and families managing complex mental and physical health diagnosis and disabilities.
Hello and welcome to my private practice for Ontario residents. I am a registered social worker (RSW). I have over 10 years of experience helping people with: recovery from addiction, managing anxiety and mood (depression), recovering from trauma (PTSD), self-esteem, navigating stress, burnout, managing a diagnosis, grief and loss, improving relationships and communication skills, sexual health and wellbeing, to name a few. I have worked for over 20 years providing services for: diverse LGBTQ+ communities; and over 10 years for individuals with, and families managing complex mental and physical health diagnosis and disabilities.
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Addiction Counsellors
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.