ADDICTION

Addiction is a complex and chronic condition characterised by the compulsive use of substances or engagement in behaviours despite adverse consequences. It hijacks your brain's reward system, making it difficult to resist the urge to engage in addictive behaviours.

Addiction can manifest in various forms, including substance abuse, such as drug addiction and alcohol addiction, and behavioural addictions like gambling or internet use. It impacts not only you but also your loved ones, creating a ripple effect of emotional, physical, and psychological harm.

UNDERSTANDING 
ADDICTION

Addiction is a complex and chronic condition characterised by the compulsive use of substances or engagement in behaviours despite adverse consequences. It hijacks your brain's reward system, making it difficult to resist the urge to engage in addictive behaviours.

Addiction can manifest in various forms, including substance abuse, such as drug addiction and alcohol addiction, and behavioural addictions like gambling or internet use. It impacts not only you but also your loved ones, creating a ripple effect of emotional, physical, and psychological harm.

UNDERSTANDING 
ADDICTION

Treating addiction requires a multifaceted approach tailored to your unique needs. Therapists often use evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which helps you identify and change harmful thought patterns and behaviours related to substance abuse, drug addiction, and alcohol addiction.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is another powerful technique that enhances your motivation to change. Psychodynamic therapy can help you explore and understand the unconscious influences and past experiences that may contribute to your addiction, providing deeper insight and long-term solutions.

Therapy focuses on building coping mechanisms, fostering resilience, and creating a supportive environment for your recovery. Family therapy can also play a crucial role in addressing relational dynamics and building a network of support around you.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES TO 

 TREATING ADDICTION

Addiction treatment requires a personalised, multifaceted approach. Therapists use evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to change harmful thought patterns, Motivational Interviewing (MI) to enhance motivation, and psychodynamic therapy to uncover deep-rooted influences.

Therapy builds coping skills, fosters resilience, and creates a supportive environment. Family therapy also helps by strengthening relationships and support networks.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES TO 

 TREATING ADDICTION

Imagine waking up each day feeling a sense of freedom and control over your life. Without the chains of addiction, you can fully engage in meaningful activities and relationships.

Picture yourself rediscovering passions and hobbies that bring genuine joy and fulfilment. Your mind is clear, your body is healthier, and your emotions are balanced. You experience a profound sense of self-worth and confidence, knowing that you have overcome one of life's most daunting challenges.

Relationships with loved ones are repaired, filled with trust and mutual respect. Life becomes a journey of continuous growth and happiness, where you can achieve your goals and dreams without the shadow of substance abuse, drug addiction, or alcohol addiction looming over you.

This is not just a distant fantasy but a tangible reality that therapy can help you achieve, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future.


A VISION OF LIFE 
BEYOND ADDICITON

Imagine waking up free from addiction, fully engaged in life and relationships. You rediscover passions, gain clarity, and feel healthier, confident, and fulfilled. Trust is rebuilt, and life becomes a journey of growth and achievement. This reality is possible with therapy, guiding you toward a brighter, healthier future.

A VISION OF LIFE 
BEYOND ADDICITON

We offer both online and in-person therapy options, ensuring flexibility and effectiveness to suit your needs. Online therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions, allowing you to receive quality care from the comfort of your home.

Our comfortable and welcoming offices in Putney, London are available for face-to-face sessions, providing a calm environment for your therapy journey.

ONLINE & IN-PERSON

THERAPY

You can also call us and email for more information: 07352 457535 ; info@eloriumpsychologyclinic.com

WE ACCEPT:

We offer both online and in-person therapy options, ensuring flexibility and effectiveness to suit your needs. Online therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions, allowing you to receive quality care from the comfort of your home.

Our comfortable and welcoming offices in Putney, London are available for face-to-face sessions, providing a calm environment for your therapy journey. 

DO YOU PREFER ONLINE
OR IN-PERSON?

THERAPY

What causes addiction?

1

How is addiction diagnosed?

2

How can I help a loved one with addiction?

3

4

When should I seek professional help for addiction?

FREQUENTLY ASKED 
QUESTIONS

Addiction can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Factors such as family history of addiction, exposure to substance use at an early age, and underlying mental health conditions can all contribute to the development of addiction. Stressful life events and trauma can also play a significant role.

Addiction is diagnosed by a healthcare professional through a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a detailed discussion of your substance use, medical history, and a physical examination to rule out other potential causes. Standardised assessment tools and questionnaires may also be used to help diagnose addiction.

Supporting a loved one with addiction involves understanding and patience. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to accompany them to appointments if they feel comfortable. Educate yourself about addiction to better understand their experience. Provide a listening ear and avoid minimising their struggles. Encourage healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a supportive environment, and help them find appropriate treatment and support groups.

You should seek professional help for addiction if it is interfering with your daily life, causing significant distress, or leading to harmful consequences. If you experience withdrawal symptoms or feel unable to control your substance use, it is essential to seek help immediately. Early intervention can improve outcomes and help you manage addiction more effectively.


Addiction is a complex condition that affects individuals and their families. This FAQ provides key information to help you understand the causes, diagnosis, and ways to support yourself or someone dealing with addiction.

Whether you are seeking to understand addiction, help a loved one, or decide when to seek professional help yourself, this guide offers valuable insights.

What causes addiction?

1

FREQUENTLY ASKED 
QUESTIONS

Whether you are seeking to understand addiction, help a loved one, or decide when to seek professional help yourself, this guide offers valuable insights.

Addiction can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Factors such as family history of addiction, exposure to substance use at an early age, and underlying mental health conditions can all contribute to the development of addiction. Stressful life events and trauma can also play a significant role.

How is addiction diagnosed?

2

Addiction is diagnosed by a healthcare professional through a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a detailed discussion of your substance use, medical history, and a physical examination to rule out other potential causes. Standardised assessment tools and questionnaires may also be used to help diagnose addiction.

How can I help a loved one with addiction?

3

Supporting a loved one with addiction involves understanding and patience. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to accompany them to appointments if they feel comfortable. Educate yourself about addiction to better understand their experience. Provide a listening ear and avoid minimising their struggles. Encourage healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a supportive environment, and help them find appropriate treatment and support groups.

When should I seek professional help for addiction?

4

You should seek professional help for addiction if it is interfering with your daily life, causing significant distress, or leading to harmful consequences. If you experience withdrawal symptoms or feel unable to control your substance use, it is essential to seek help immediately. Early intervention can improve outcomes and help you manage addiction more effectively.

ENQUIRY

FORM

Share your current circumstances, and a member of our clinical triage team will promptly respond to discuss the appropriate next steps which will involve scheduling an initial free telephone consultation followed by a review and our unique matching process.  

We strive to provide a response within 24 hours.
You can also call us or message for more information:

07352 457535

Alternatively, you can email us your questions and current situation to info@eloriumpsychologyclinic.com
THANK YOU! 
WE'LL BE IN TOUCH WITH YOU SHORTLY
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis:

  • Attend your local Accident & Emergency (A&E) department or call the
Emergency Services on 999. They will be able to offer you immediate
support.

  • Contact your GP. Your GP will be able to discuss options to best
support you, including access to crisis care.

  • Telephone The Samaritans on 116123. The Samaritans offer a listening
and confidential phone service to anyone in distress.

ENQUIRY

FORM

Share your current circumstances, and a member of our clinical triage team will promptly respond to discuss the appropriate next steps.

You can also call us or message for more information: 07352 457535
You can also email us:  info@eloriumpsychologyclinic.com
THANK YOU! 
WE'LL BE IN TOUCH WITH YOU SHORTLY
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis:

  • Attend your local Accident & Emergency (A&E) department or call
999. They will be able to offer you immediate
support.



  • Contact your GP. Your GP will be able to discuss options to best
support you, including access to crisis care.



  • Telephone The Samaritans on 116123. The Samaritans offer a listening
and confidential phone service to anyone in distress.