Online Therapy for
Recovery is possible, and it begins with one step
Addiction is a complex condition involving compulsive engagement with substances or behaviours despite harmful consequences. It affects millions of people in the UK across alcohol, drugs, gambling, and other dependencies. Addiction is not a moral failing or lack of willpower, it's a condition with neurological, psychological, and social dimensions. Therapy is a cornerstone of recovery.
General information, not medical advice
This page is for general information and does not diagnose, treat, or replace advice from a GP or other qualified health professional. If symptoms are new, severe, worsening, or you are worried about your safety, seek appropriate medical or urgent support.
Signs and symptoms
You might be experiencing addiction & recovery if you recognise any of the following:
- Using substances or engaging in behaviours more than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use
- Cravings that are difficult to resist
- Continuing despite awareness of harmful consequences
- Withdrawal when not using, physical or psychological
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, and interests
- Tolerance, needing more to achieve the same effect
- Significant time spent obtaining, using, or recovering
What causes addiction & recovery?
Addiction & Recovery is rarely caused by a single factor. Common contributing factors include:
- Genetic predisposition to addiction
- Trauma and early adverse experiences, addiction as a coping mechanism
- Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD
- Social and environmental factors, peer use, availability, stress
- Neurological changes from repeated substance use affecting reward pathways
How therapy can help
Motivational interviewing is a collaborative talking approach that can help a person explore mixed feelings about change without being told what to do. Other talking therapies may help some people understand triggers, address related mental-health needs, and plan changes. Dependence and withdrawal can carry medical risks, so specialist or urgent clinical support may be needed.
Therapeutic approaches we use
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
A collaborative, non-judgemental conversation-based approach that helps you explore ambivalence about change and strengthen your own motivation for recovery.
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Addresses the underlying trauma that frequently drives addiction, treating the root rather than just the behaviour.
CBT for Addiction
Identifies the triggers, thoughts, and coping patterns that maintain addictive behaviour, and builds alternative skills.
12-Step Facilitation Therapy
Supports engagement with 12-step programmes (AA, NA, GA) alongside individual therapy work.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to have stopped using before I start therapy?
Some services work with people who are still using substances, while others have different criteria. Specialist assessment can identify medical risks and the safest level of support.
Can online therapy work for addiction?
Online talking support may be appropriate for some people, but dependence and withdrawal can require face-to-face, medical, or inpatient care. Seek specialist assessment rather than relying on online therapy alone.
Will my therapist judge me?
A suitably trained therapist should offer respectful, non-stigmatising support. You can ask about their training, confidentiality, safeguarding duties, and experience with substance use before beginning.
What if I relapse during therapy?
A return to use does not mean support has failed. Contact your treatment service or another qualified professional to review risks and next steps; urgent medical help may be needed after a change in tolerance.
Content information and sources
Editorial status: Content checked against UK clinical guidance and NHS information. Reviewed . This is an editorial check; no named clinician is represented as having reviewed this page.
Authoritative UK sources relevant to this topic:
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