Addiction often begins subtly. For some, drug use starts in social settings as an experiment or a way to unwind. But over time, casual use can become more frequent. Eventually, a person may need increasing amounts of a substance just to feel "normal." This same cycle of dependency can happen not just with drugs, but with alcohol, sex, pornography, and gambling. Whether it’s substance-related or behavioral, addiction affects a person’s body, thoughts, emotions, relationships, and sense of self. If you’ve found yourself in a similar pattern, know you’re not alone. Compassionate, nonjudgmental support is available with addiction therapy in Tacoma, Washington, at Woodland Pathways Counseling.
Signs of Addiction
Addiction is deeply personal. The signs look different for everyone, but here are some common indicators that it may be time to explore addiction therapy:
- Feeling compelled to use drugs, alcohol, or engage in certain behaviors daily or repeatedly
- Intense urges or cravings
- Needing more of a substance or engaging in a behavior to feel the same effect
- Preoccupation with maintaining access to the substance or behavior
- Difficulty with work, school, or family responsibilities
- Acting outside of your values to sustain the addiction, such as lying or stealing
- Spending increasing time and energy on obtaining or using
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Unsuccessful efforts to cut back or stop
If any of these signs feel familiar, addiction counseling can offer a path forward.
Approaches to Addiction Treatment
There are many effective techniques for addiction treatment, each designed to support healing in a way that honors your unique experiences. Some of these include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors related to the addiction
- Trauma-informed therapy, such as EMDR and attachment-focused EMDR, to address underlying emotional wounds that may be perpetuating the cycle of addiction
- Individual counseling, which creates a safe space to explore triggers, patterns, and personal goals
Treatment provides helpful coping tools, rebuilding self-trust, and allowing you to restore a healthier, more grounded sense of self.
Supporting Your Recovery
Recovery looks different for everyone, and therapy should reflect that. With a personalized, heart-centered approach, Teresa Zuvela at Woodland Pathways Counseling can work with you to explore both the symptoms and root causes of addiction, helping you build a recovery plan that aligns with your values, goals, and pace. Please reach out to Woodland Pathways Counseling to schedule a free consultation for addiction therapy in Tacoma, WA, and take the first step toward lasting change.