Below you will learn how online therapy from an experienced psychologist can offer you a significant advantage in overcoming any form of addiction, including substance misuse, gambling, pornography, gaming addiction and other compulsive behaviours.

Addiction often stems from deeper psychological issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Online therapy can help you explore these underlying issues and develop coping strategies to manage them more effectively. By addressing these issues with an experienced psychologist’s support, you can better understand what fuels the addiction and learn how to manage your unique triggers and cravings.

Addiction can lead to, or be underpinned by, feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. Online therapy can help you build self-awareness and develop a more positive self-image. This, in turn, can help you feel more confident and motivated and give you the courage and emotional support to pursue your recovery journey.

Recovery is a process that can be challenging and stressful at times. Having easy access to a psychologist specialising in addiction treatment can help you develop better coping skills to manage the stress, anxiety, and other emotions that can arise during recovery. These coping skills can include mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques. The convenience and flexibility of online therapy also reduce the stress of trying to fit sessions into a busy schedule.

Addiction can damage relationships with family, friends, and other loved ones. Online therapy can guide you to develop healthy communication skills, rebuild trust, and repair damaged relationships. Your psychologist will help you rebuild a support system that lets you stay on track with the help of those around you. You can even involve your family members in your online sessions at a place and time that suits you and them.

Since online therapy is more accessible than in-person therapy, it can be a powerful tool for restoring a sense of accountability and responsibility for your actions. Life’s demands can often distract from maintaining momentum in your treatment. Online therapy makes it easier for you to stay committed to your recovery and make progress towards the goals you set in therapy and your 12-step program.

Many individuals who struggle with addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unless these issues are addressed, 12-step recovery programs can be derailed. Online therapy can help you develop insight into your mental health and the necessary strategies to address underlying challenges.

It is well-known in 12-step circles that there are numerous triggers for the addiction cycle. These can include certain situations, people, or emotions that lead to cravings or relapse. Online therapy gives you the space and dedicated support to identify the triggers likely to get you in trouble. Your psychologist can help you identify and then manage your triggers, thereby reducing the risk of relapse.

Many 12-step recovery programs emphasise the importance of spirituality and surrendering to a higher power. Although not everyone is religious, online therapy can help you explore your spirituality and develop a deeper understanding of your core beliefs and values. This can provide a sense of purpose and meaning that can carry you through some of the more challenging parts of the recovery process.

Relapse is a common challenge in recovery. Online therapy provides an accessible and sustained source of encouragement to stay the course after a relapse. Regular sessions with your psychologist can be valuable to any relapse prevention plan. Knowing you have support can make you feel more prepared and confident in your ability to maintain your sobriety. In conclusion, online therapy is helpful for ongoing support and guidance throughout the recovery journey. Combined with a 12-step program, online support from a suitably trained and specialised psychologist can help you stay motivated, confident and committed to a better addiction-free life.