Drug addiction therapy
Recover from drug abuse
Counselling for substance addiction
My drug addiction treatment program offers strategies and supports to help you quit your drug habit, and achieve complete recovery - .
Regardless of whether your substance dependence involves ice, cannabis, cocaine, heroin or prescription medication, we’ll work together to address the physical and psychological aspects of your reliance.
I’ll also share my own experience with substance abuse and long term recovery with you, and together we’ll build you a life that is healthy, fulfilling, and free of drugs.
"True recovery means not just stopping drug use, but building a life that makes drugs unnecessary."
My drug addiction therapy
I use a specialised addiction treatment method known as Wellness Recovery with my clients. It is designed to help individuals overcome drug dependence, and develop healthier ways to deal with the issues that are causing the drug use.
Unlike traditional approaches that focus solely on abstinence, my therapy addresses the stress, trauma, relationship issues, and mental health challenges behind the addiction.
Benefits of wellness recovery therapy
My wellness recovery services are beneficial for anyone who:
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Feels their substance use has become problematic or out of control
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Has tried to cut back or quit but struggled to maintain changes
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Uses drugs and/or behaviours to cope with stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions
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Has experienced negative consequences from drug use
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Wants to reduce or stop using drugs
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Is in early recovery, withdrawal or rehabilitation and needs support to prevent relapse
My approach to substance abuse recovery
My approach to wellness recovery is based on the understanding that substances can hijack the brain's reward system, affecting both brain chemistry and behaviour patterns.
I recognise that a drug problem is not a moral failing or lack of willpower, but a complex condition influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.
I’ll explain how the drugs have disrupted your brain’s normal function and teach you techniques to rewire your neural pathways for healthier functioning.
I use a combination of evidence-based techniques including:
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Motivational enhancement: strengthening your internal motivation for change
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Transformational identity shift: developing awareness of triggers and cravings of a version of yourself who 'previously’ used alcohol as a coping mechanism, as well as creating a whole new self-identity where your needs and wants are met
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Solution-focused brief therapy: building on the strengths and successes that have kept you alive, and applying these resources to a conscious new way of being.
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Subconscious Dynamics™: addressing unconscious patterns and creating new associations
The Drug Recovery Program
Here is an outline of a typical drug wellness recovery program that we’ll adapt to your specific needs and circumstances. Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes, and occur weekly during the initial phase, then gradually decrease in frequency as you build confidence in your recovery. You are in control and decide how and what support you require from me.
Assess & plan
1-2 sessions
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Evaluate your substance use patterns & history
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Assess your physical dependence & withdrawal risk
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Identify your triggers & high-risk situations
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Develop specific recovery goals & plan
Core recovery work
2-6 sessions
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Build motivation & commitment to change
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Develop effective strategies to manage cravings & triggers
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Address underlying issues contributing to substance use
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Create healthy routines & support systems
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Learn relapse prevention techniques
Maintain & grow
4-6 sessions
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Reinforce new habits & thought patterns
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Develop long-term strategies for sustained recovery
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Build a fulfilling drug-free lifestyle
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Plan for ongoing support & growth
Outcomes
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Freedom from compulsive drinking
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Improved physical & mental health
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Better sleep, energy, & cognitive function
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Healthier relationships & communication
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Enhanced stress management
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Greater self-awareness & personal growth
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Renewed sense of purpose & direction
Book an appointment
Appointments are available at my private practice in Hamilton, Newcastle or online via a secure Zoom session at these times:
In person: Tue, Wed, Thu 8.00am - 6.30pm
Zoom: Mon, Wed, Thu 8.00am - 6.30pm
Whether we meet online or in-person, I will provide a confidential, safe, non-judgemental space for us to work together.
Book a free consult
If you're ready to reclaim your life and become the best version of yourself, I invite you to book a confidential, no-obligation consultation call via Zoom, so we can discuss how to help you achieve lasting recovery.
Book a free 15 minute consult on a Monday, Wednesday or Thursday between 8.00am and 6.30pm.
Success story
After a back injury, I became dependent on pain meds that were originally prescribed by my doctor. It all began as legitimate pain management but became uncontrollable. I knew I had a problem but was too ashamed to tell anyone.
Rob changed everything. He helped me understand how there are physical and psychological reasons as to why I had developed an addiction, and helped me create a plan to work with my health team to reduce my meds and find alternative ways to manage my pain.
The hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques he taught me were for managing my pain and cravings were game-changers . He also helped me stop thinking I was an "addict" to "someone in recovery who was taking positive steps forward."
One year later, I'm free from pain medication, my relationships have improved, I'm back at work, and I feel like ‘me’ again. Most importantly, I'm in control of my life and I love it.
Shane
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Are your services for young people too?Yes. I help people of any age - teenagers, young adults, or older. If you’re a parent or carer looking for support for a younger person, feel free to reach out to me too. The same applies to gender, sexual orientation, nationality or background. My practice is open to and respectful of everyone.
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Can I do sessions online?Yes. I offer both in-person sessions in Newcastle, NSW, and online counselling for clients across Australia and internationally. You can choose what works best for your comfort, schedule, and location.
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What is hypnosis and how does it help?Hypnotherapy is a gentle approach that helps you relax deeply so your subconscious mind is more open to new, helpful thoughts, and behaviours and suggestions. It can support you in changing habits, cravings, and how you see yourself — without force or fear.
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Do I have to take medication as part of your therapy?No. My approach is holistic and medication-free. We focus on natural methods, including talk therapy, life coaching, and hypnosis, to support your recovery. If you are on medication or working with a doctor, we can work together alongside that support.
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How long does therapy treatment take?Recovery is a personal journey. For some, changes happen quickly; for others, it takes as long as is exactly right for you.’s a slower process. My job is to walk beside you and help you stay on track. Whether you’re early in your journey or have tried other forms of treatment, we’ll build a plan that works for you.
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What is Subconscious Dynamic™ therapy?Subconscious Dynamics™ is a therapeutic approach that combines modern hypnosis with neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), to access the powerful subconscious mind. The subconscious mind is a powerful and neutral beast. By combining hypnosis with Subconscious Dynamic™ therapy we can bypass the overthinking conscious mind and delve into your deep mind, where you can rapidly address and rewire the brain for lasting recovery, growth, or change.
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What does 'holistic therapy' mean?Holistic therapy means we look at all parts of your life—your body, thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even your purpose. Addiction, poor mental health and self-identity issues affect everything, so healing and growth should involve everything too.
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Is this service just for drug and alcohol addiction?Not at all. While I provide drug and alcohol counselling for people struggling with drug abuse, and alcohol misuse, or any form of substance addiction, I also support people to resolve and eliminate other unhelpful compulsive behaviours and coping strategies - like gambling, emotional eating and screen addiction. If something in your life feels out of control, we can work on it together.
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What are signs of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence?Needing more drinks to feel the same effect Drinking alone or in secret Feeling anxious or irritable without alcohol Missing work, arguments with loved ones, or health issues caused by drinking Feeling guilt or shame after drinking—but still continuing Relying on alcohol rather than enjoying it
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How do I get a loved one with addiction issues to seek help?This is a common situation. Start by approaching the person with care not criticism. Avoid confronting them when they’re under the influence, or calling them an ‘addict’. Share your concerns gently and focus on how their behaviour is affecting their health, relationships, or life goals. Offer support, not shame. If they’re not keen to commit to therapy, you can suggest doing one of my 15 minute free consultation calls to “get things off their chest,” or attending just one session. You could offer to join them if that makes them feel more comfortable, or even to book the appointment. Ultimately, you can’t force someone to change—but you can plant a seed, and be there when they’re ready. Many of my clients who once denied needing addiction help, came to me later, and made powerful, lasting changes when the timing was right for them.
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Can I get drug and alcohol help online?Yes. I offer online drug and alcohol help across Australia, as well as in-person sessions in Newcastle, NSW. Online therapy is private, flexible, and a great option if you live regionally or prefer support from home.
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What happens if I relapse?Relapse is common during recovery, and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. We’ll use it as a learning moment and adjust your plan to make it even stronger. You’ll have tools in place to bounce back and keep moving forward.
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How long does recovery take?Everyone’s journey is different. Some people feel better quickly, while others need more time. Recovery is a process, not a quick fix—but with the right support, you can expect steady, meaningful progress.
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Is this a rehabilitation program?While this is not a residential rehabilitation facility, my one-on-one therapy offers a personalised recovery pathway that is ideal for people looking for addiction help without going into full-time rehab. It’s flexible, private, and tailored to your needs.
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When does alcohol intake become an addiction?In Australia, drinking is a big part of our social culture. At barbecues, parties, even casual get-togethers, it’s common to see almost everyone with a drink and an esky full of alcohol nearby. But alcohol intake can become an alcohol addiction when it starts to negatively affect your health, work, relationships or wellbeing — and when you feel like you can’t stop, even if you want to. Don’t wait until things get worse — early support can help you take control and stop the habit before it becomes a serious problem.
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Why do you feel depressed or anxious?Depression and anxiety are the brain’s response to long-term stress, trauma, or imbalance. In depression, areas of the brain that regulate mood and motivation—like the prefrontal cortex and amygdala—can fall out of sync. This reduces important brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, making it harder to feel joy, energy or connection. In anxiety, the brain’s “alarm system” becomes overactive. The amygdala can stay on high alert, even when there’s no real danger. This can make ordinary situations feel overwhelming and exhausting.
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What are the signs and symptoms of depression?Some examples are listed here, but see our How to Tell If You’re Experiencing Depression blog post for full details: Ongoing low mood or irritability Withdrawing from people or activities Feeling worthless or guilty Headaches, stomach pain, or other physical symptoms Thoughts of self-harm or suicide