Therapy for Alcoholism: Compassionate Support for Real Recovery
- Deborah Marks
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Alcohol dependence often develops quietly. What starts as a way to unwind, manage stress, or fit in socially can become a cycle that’s hard to break. If you or someone you love feels trapped by drinking habits, it’s important to know: you are not weak, broken, or beyond help.
Therapy offers a safe, non-judgemental space to explore what’s beneath the surface and to rebuild your relationship with yourself, one step at a time.
If you or someone you love feels trapped by drinking habits, it’s important to know: you are not weak, broken, or beyond help.
🍷 When Drinking Becomes a Problem
Many people struggling with alcohol misuse are high-functioning. They may hold jobs, care for families, and maintain appearances, all while silently battling cravings, shame, or emotional exhaustion.
Signs that drinking may be affecting your wellbeing include:
Difficulty cutting down or stopping despite wanting to
Drinking alone or in secret
Using alcohol to cope with anxiety, stress, or emotional pain
Impact on relationships, work, or health
Guilt, regret, or memory lapses related to drinking
🧠 Why Therapy, Not Just Willpower
Recovery isn’t simply about willpower or abstinence; it’s about understanding the emotional drivers behind alcohol use and learning new, healthier ways to cope.
Therapy can help you:
Identify underlying stressors, trauma, or mental health issues
Build skills to manage cravings, anxiety, and low mood
Explore your relationship with alcohol in a safe, honest space
Break patterns of self-criticism and shame
Develop personalised strategies for change without judgement
It’s not just about “stopping” something harmful. It’s about starting something healing.
It’s not just about “stopping” something harmful. It’s about starting something healing.
💬 Common Thoughts You Might Be Having
“I don’t drink every day, so I’m not an alcoholic.”
“I’ve tried quitting before. I always fail.”
“It’s not that bad compared to others.”
“I’ll just cut back when things calm down.”
These thoughts are common, and they don’t make you weak or resistant. They reflect the push-pull many people feel when alcohol is both a coping tool and a source of harm. Therapy helps untangle this dynamic and offers support to fit your experience.
🤍 Therapy That Meets You Where You Are
At Hope Prevails, I offer therapy that is:
Person-centred: You set the pace. You define what recovery looks like for you.
Trauma-informed: Many people who struggle with alcohol use have a history of trauma. You will never be blamed or pathologised here.
Non-judgemental: Whether your goal is sobriety, harm reduction, or simply understanding your patterns, you’ll be met with empathy, not shame.
🪴 Counselling Can Support You If You Are:
Concerned about your drinking and not sure what to do
Supporting a loved one with alcohol dependence
In recovery and wanting to strengthen your coping tools
Feeling stuck in a pattern of bingeing, self-loathing, and secrecy
Ready to have a different relationship with yourself
🌊 Support on the Gold Coast or From Home
I provide therapy for alcohol use and recovery:
In person on the Gold Coast
Via telehealth (secure video sessions) across Queensland and Australia
With flexible options to suit your lifestyle and comfort
📞 You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
If you’re struggling with alcohol use, or just feeling unsure about your relationship with drinking, therapy can be the first step toward healing, clarity, and self-respect.
You don’t need to hit “rock bottom.”
You don’t need to have all the answers.
You just need a safe space to start asking the right questions.
Reach out today to book a confidential consultation.
Your recovery doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It just has to begin.
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