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Addiction

Support for all stages of Addiction and Recovery

Addiction can take many forms - from substances like alcohol or drugs, to behaviours such as gambling, overworking, or compulsive phone use. However it shows up in your life, the impact can feel overwhelming, isolating, and hard to talk about.

Whether you're navigating addiction yourself or feeling the ripple effects of a loved one’s struggles, you don't have to go through it alone.

You don’t need to be in crisis to reach out. I work with people at all stages of their journey,  whether you're beginning to question your relationship with a substance or behaviour, feeling stuck in a cycle of use, or working hard to stay in recovery, I'm here to support you.

 

Recovery is not a straight line, and slips or relapses don’t mean failure, they are often part of the journey to recovery.  If you’re in a place of uncertainty, fear, or exhaustion, you’re not alone. The fact that you're here already shows your strength and your hope for your future and recovery. My aim is to support lasting change that honours your story, your strengths, and your hopes for the future. 

 

How I Work with Addiction

Through my own lived experience of supporting loved ones through addiction, I understand how complex and painful addiction can be, not only for the person going through it, but also for those around them. This insight shapes how I work: with deep patience, empathy, and care. I support both individuals struggling with addiction and those affected by a loved one’s use.

I bring this personal understanding together with specialist clinical training in addiction, alongside experience working in one of the UK’s leading private rehabilitation clinics and within established community drug and alcohol services. This combination enables me to provide support that is both compassionate and grounded in evidence-based practice, walking alongside people as they navigate their recovery journey.

My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing on Gestalt therapy, CBT, and person-centred counselling. Together, we can explore what lies beneath the surface and develop healthier, more sustainable coping strategies that support your recovery goals and future. 

Whatever your story, I offer a safe, non-judgemental space where meaningful change can happen.

A guiding principle in my work comes from Dr. Gabor Maté, who says:

“The question is not why the addiction, but why the pain.”

Support for Family & Friends
Supporting someone through addiction can feel overwhelming and confusing. You may worry about saying the wrong thing or feel unsure how to help, these feelings are completely natural.

Addiction affects the whole family, and while your loved one’s recovery matters, so does your own wellbeing. A key part of recovery is maintaining connection without pushing your loved one away or enabling harmful behaviours. I can help you explore ways to support them while also looking after yourself.

Alongside our sessions, I can signpost you to additional resources such as local peer support groups and fellowships like AA and NA which you can even attend with your loved one, helping you feel less alone and more supported.

You don’t need to have all the answers - your care and presence already make a meaningful difference.

Substance Addictions

These involve a physical or psychological dependence on a substance. I work with clients who are navigating issues related to:

  • Alcohol
     

  • Drugs (e.g. cocaine, heroin, cannabis, ketamine, MDMA)
     

  • Prescription medication (e.g. benzodiazepines, opioids)
     

  • Nicotine (smoking or vaping)
     

 

Behavioural Addictions

These involve compulsive engagement in behaviours despite negative consequences. I support clients with:

  • Gambling
     

  • Sex and pornography
     

  • Gaming
     

  • Internet or smartphone use
     

  • Shopping/spending
     

  • Exercise
     

  • Work addiction (workaholism)

 

Useful Contacts

If you need immediate support or would like to explore other resources alongside therapy, the following organisations may be helpful:

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
📞 0800 9177 650
📧 help@aamail.org
🌐
alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Help and support for anyone with alcohol problems.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

📞 0300 999 1212
📧
ukhelpline@ukna.org
🌐 ukna.org
Support for anyone struggling with drug use.​

GambleAware
📞 0808 8020 133
🌐
gambleaware.org
Free, confidential advice and support for anyone affected by gambling.

Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA)
📞 0794 683 9503

🌐 saa-recovery.org
Support for anyone struggling with compulsive sexual behaviours.

 

FRANK
📞 0300 123 6600
🌐
talktofrank.com
Confidential advice and information about drugs, their effects, and the law.
 

We Are With You

  🌐 wearewithyou.org.uk
 Support for people with drug, alcohol, or mental health issues, and their loved ones.

Contact me...

Please reach out by using the form below, or you can contact me via phone or email. I look forward to hearing from you. 

Siân Carpenter CPCAB MBACP

07508 077008 - Calls & texts welcome

Sian-counselling@hotmail.com

Worth, Deal, Kent, CT14 0FA. 

Thank you for your message. I will be in contact with you soon. 

If you're in crisis or need of immediate support, please contact one of the helplines below. Trained professionals are available to assist you 24/7.

Samaritans support line logo

www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/ 

Call 116 123

(Free from any phone - open 24/7)

Shout support line lgo

www.giveusashout.org/ 

Text 85258 

(free from any phone, open 24/7)

 © 2025 Siân Carpenter CPCAB BACP - Counselling & Psychotherapy. All rights reserved.

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