Your Marriage Counselor

Dealing With Addiction

There are many relationships that on the brink of divorce, because of addiction.  Over the years,  I have dealt with people who are suffering from addiction to: pornography, internet,  alcohol, drugs, shopping, and even gambling.  Unless the addiction is stopped the relationship will be destroyed and  families will be broken up.

Three Steps to Dealing With Addiction

First, I will help you (the person who is exploring the addiction question) understand what is going on emotionally.  Often times, addictive behavior is a reaction to stress, anxiety, hopelessness or even depression.

Second, we will take a look at the impact of the addiction on the person’s partner.

Third, together we will develop practical strategies of getting past the addiction and having a normal productive happy life.

We will do our counseling either individually, as a couple or a combination of both approaches.  Together we will determine which will be the most effective in your particular situation

If you would like more information give me a call at 1-888-281-5850.  Phone coaching is also available to folks unable to see me at my office.   Ask me about the for folks who are having economic challenges ask me about the  $95  Introductory session

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Here is an article that will relate to the partner of someone who is addicted.  (Are you Co-Dependent?)

Regardless of whether or not it is alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling or the Internet,it is hard to have a partner that is an addict. Addiction affects personal relationships, communication, parenting, finances and work life

Oftentimes, a non-addict believes that this problem is best resolved by getting his/her partner to admit and deal with the addiction and participate in therapy (Information on non-traditional treatment for addictions is available at DrMartyTashman.com). A bigger challenge however, is for the non-addict to think about ones own needs and behavior. It is important that the non-addicted partner consider these questions:

• What do you want and need from this relationship?
• How do you need to be treated?
• Am I being a good partner by being supportive (but not enabling) and understanding (but not rationalizing)?
• What am I going to do that is not dependant on my partner’s behavior? Read more