Behavioural Counselling

Understanding Behavioural Counselling

Behavioural counselling addresses addictions where individuals compulsively engage in specific behaviours despite negative consequences. Unlike substance addictions, these do not involve external chemicals but can be equally destructive.

Common Types of Behavioural Addictions

• Gambling addiction

• Sex addiction

• Gaming addiction

• Eating disorders

• Love addiction

• Codependency

• Pornography addiction

• Shopping and spending addiction

Symptoms of Behavioural Addiction

• Inability to resist impulses

• Loss of interest in other activities

• Irritability when unable to engage in the behaviour

• Feelings of guilt

• Denial of the problem

• Dishonesty about behaviours

How a Behavioural Counsellor Can Help

A behavioural counsellor aims to:

• Provide information about specific addictions and the recovery process

• Uncover underlying psychological causes of the addiction

• Develop structured and realistic treatment plans tailored to individual needs

• Offer techniques and strategies for successful recovery

• Conduct regular assessments to monitor progress

• Provide emotional support throughout each stage of recovery

Therapeutic Approaches in Behavioural Counselling

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing thought patterns that trigger compulsive behaviour

• Motivational Therapy (MT): Encourages introspection and builds the client’s motivation to change

• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT): Helps manage emotions and strengthen coping strategies in intense emotional states

• Integrated Counselling Therapy: Combines different counselling and psychotherapeutic methods

• Person-Centred Counselling: Aims to heal the whole individual, fostering self-awareness and acceptance

Accessing Behavioural Counselling Services

SBS Treatments connects individuals with fully qualified and experienced counsellors specialising in behavioural addictions. While in-person counselling is often the most effective, telephone and video counselling are also available for those who need flexibility or prefer remote sessions.