Question 1

How does talking to a counsellor help?

Accepted Answer

If you are struggling with addiction, or would like to understand addiction better, then counselling can help. Our counsellors provide a safe, non-judgemental place for you to ask questions, explore the reasons why addiction has become a part of your life, and make choices for positive change. It can help you heal from past hurts, communicate more effectively with your loved ones, and decide which steps you would like to take in order to live life the way you want to.

Question 2

My family member needs help, not me - so why should I see a counsellor?

Accepted Answer

When a family member is struggling with addiction issues, it can be very difficult for everyone involved. Even when we are doing the best we can to help, it doesn’t always work out. Our counsellors will help you to support your family member.

By attending counselling, you can gain clarity about the situation, make informed choices about how to move forward, and be supported by someone who isn’t directly involved. After all, it’s very difficult to care for someone when your tank is empty - and counselling helps you refill your tank.

Question 3

I have supportive family and friends - why is talking to a counsellor any different?

Accepted Answer

There’s no denying that friends and family are a great support in our lives when we’re having a difficult time. However, sometimes talking to someone who isn’t directly involved can help with a new perspective, new ideas and different ways of coping.

Addiction can be very dangerous, and it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Our counsellors provide you with information and advice about addictions, and together we can develop a plan to assist in keeping yourself or your family member safe.

Question 4

I work full time - do you have after hours appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please contact us to discuss an appointment time that will work for you.

Question 5

What is your approach to counselling?

Accepted Answer

At Sydney Addictions Recovery, we believe that most addictions form as a way of helping us cope, but unfortunately when they take over, they become more damaging than helpful.

Counselling is a collaboration, and we take the approach that you are the expert in your life - our job is to help you work towards creating a life that you are happy and proud to live. Our counsellors can help you understand your addiction better, so you can make helpful choices for your recovery.

Question 6

What is the difference between a Psychotherapist or Counsellor, and a Psychiatrist or Psychologist? Which one should I see?

Accepted Answer

This can get confusing! All three practitioners aim to do the same thing - help you with whatever is causing distress. You could say that all three have different ways of looking at problems, and address these problems differently.

Simply put, a psychotherapist or counsellor is someone who is trained to specifically help people by using talk therapy (otherwise known as counselling). When you see our counsellors, there is no limit on how many sessions you can attend per year.

A psychologist is someone who diagnoses and treats mental distress with talk therapy, but they can also specialise in research, academia and teaching. Often psychologists will only see clients for 6 to 10 sessions under Medicare.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Sometimes they might prescribe you medication, but not always, and some of them also see clients on a weekly basis for counselling - but this is not very common.

If you’re unsure which practitioner you should see, please feel free to contact us and we can have a discussion about which option will suit you best.

FAQ's