Addiction And Recovery

An addiction is a chronic disorder in which an individual is blinded by a substance, or engages in an activity, that gives them a degree of pleasure but has become detrimental to their everyday life. Compulsive behaviors and addictions can temporarily provide confidence, control, validation or other emotions lacking in one’s life, but the behavior may not stop until the root of the problem is addressed.

Addiction changes the brain through the limbic system, also known as the “brain reward system.” This part of the brain is responsible for producing feelings of pleasure and will manifest thoughts such as, “I deserve this,” or “Let’s do that again.” The abuse of addictive substances and behaviors triggers this system which can prolong a continuous cycle of destructive behavior.

Common addictions include but are not limited to:

  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Gambling
  • Internet
  • Shopping
  • Food

Seek Professional Assistance

People who have developed an addiction may be unaware that it is out of control, which is why counseling is an essential part of working through and managing this condition. An addiction of any sort can be exhausting and one should never go through the recovery process alone.

Many treatment plans focus on talk therapy and behavior therapy and can be performed in a group or through one-on-one sessions. During these sessions, patients analyze the reasons behind their addiction(s), what triggers are and what helped them control impulses in the past. Patients also learn coping skills so they can manage the compulsions without relapsing.

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 At Clarity, Wendy can help you asses whether or not you or someone you love may need to address addiction. Wendy can provide counseling pertaining to addiction but the recovery process occurs with professionals that specialize in addiction and who can provide services from detox through recovery. Wendy can be there before and after that process and depending on the program you choose, she might be able to remain your counselor throughout. 

Office is not open for walk-ins

Wendy Wikstrom Snodgrass, LPC

Monday

12:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Tuesday

12:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Wednesday

12:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Thursday

12:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Friday

12:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Saturday

Scheduling Available On A Case By Case Basis

Sunday

Closed

Wendy Wikstrom Snodgrass, LPC

Monday
12:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tuesday
12:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wednesday
12:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Thursday
12:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Friday
12:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Saturday
Scheduling Available On A Case By Case Basis
Sunday
Closed