Addiction

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Addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, regardless of age, background, or socioeconomic status.

Psychology plays a vital role in understanding and treating addiction by addressing the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive aspects of the condition. Through evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychologists help individuals identify the underlying thoughts and triggers that lead to substance use. These therapies teach healthier coping mechanisms, improve emotional regulation, and build resilience against relapse.

Beyond therapy, psychology supports long-term recovery by fostering self-awareness and motivation for change. Psychologists also work closely with individuals to rebuild their relationships, develop support systems, and set meaningful goals for the future. With compassionate guidance and tailored treatment plans, psychological support can make recovery not just possible—but sustainable.

Understanding addiction means shifting from blame to compassion, context, and connection.

Who is Affected?

Addiction does not discriminate. It can impact:

Adolescents and Young Adults – Due to peer influence, curiosity, and brain development vulnerabilities.
Adults – Often linked with stress, mental health disorders, or chronic pain.
Elderly – Particularly with prescription medication misuse.
Individuals with Co-occurring Disorders – Those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other psychiatric conditions are at a higher risk.
Social, cultural, and economic factors can exacerbate the risk, including poverty, trauma, unstable family environments, and lack of access to mental health care.
Professionals managing stress.
Individuals with a family history of addiction.

Moving Forward: A Call for Compassion and Action

Addiction is a public health issue, not a personal failing. As mental health professionals and society at large, our approach is rooted in empathy, education, and evidence-based intervention. Whether you are a healthcare provider, a loved one, or an individual affected by addiction, remember that recovery is possible—and support is essential.

Addiction may steal years, health, and hope—but it does not define a person’s worth. Every individual caught in the cycle of addiction has a story worth understanding and a future worth fighting for.

Let’s replace stigma with empathy. Let’s choose understanding over judgment. Because recovery is not a miracle—it’s a human right.

Alexander Robertson

Located in our North Sydney Psychology Clinic, with over 14 years of experience, Alexander integrates EMDR with therapies like CBT to assist clients facing anxiety, depression, and trauma

Alex supports adolescents and adults navigating addiction alongside life transitions, trauma, and relationship challenges. His practice emphasizes professionalism, empathy, and practical psychological tools. He draws on multiple evidence-based modalities to assist clients in achieving sustainable change.

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Anna Madigan-Singh

Located in our Hornsby Psychology Clinic, and with over 20 years of experience, Anna supports individuals of all ages with a warm, relational approach. Her work includes helping clients understand and manage addictive behaviors, while drawing on therapeutic frameworks that promote emotional regulation, connection, and clarity.

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Batu Erinc Oguz

Located in our Newtown Psychology Clinic & Logic Lounge Psychology & Psychiatry Drummoyne , Batu offers support for clients aged 16 and over dealing with addiction and its psychological roots. His practice integrates insight-driven and practical methods, focusing on building emotional understanding, behavioural change, and strengthening the capacity to manage urges and underlying stressors.

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Holly Suen

Located in our Gordon Psychology Clinic, Holly provides support for young people affected directly or indirectly by addiction, including children in families navigating substance use challenges. Her approach is collaborative, developmentally attuned, and incorporates family systems to promote resilience and adaptive coping from an early age.

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Hurryat Faniad

Hurryat works with older adolescents and adults, offering psychological treatment for addiction as part of broader mental health care. He blends therapeutic insight with practical strategies, addressing both behavioral patterns and emotional factors underpinning substance use and dependency..

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Marijn Cugati

Located in our North Sydney Psychology Clinic, Marijn supports adolescents and young adults experiencing addictive behaviors or seeking clarity around harmful habits. Under supervision, they apply evidence-based techniques to help clients explore triggers, develop emotional awareness, and shift toward more adaptive coping strategies.

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Neil Jeyasingham

Located in our Hornsby Psychology Clinic & Logic Lounge Psychology & Psychiatry Drummoyne, Neil provides psychiatric oversight for individuals facing complex mental health needs, including those with co-occurring addiction and psychiatric diagnoses. His role ensures integrated care through comprehensive assessment, medication management, and collaboration with psychologists to support each client’s recovery journey.

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