Professional Online Addiction Support
Professional and private addiction counselling, online via telehealth.
Speaking to a psychologist for addiction about your struggle can be an incredibly hard thing to do at first, but once you’ve reached out, the process to overcome your addiction can begin.
Addiction disorders are complex – and often result in significant consequences for the affected individual and their loved ones.
Understanding the biological components of addiction can help an individual understand their battle. Addiction involves the brain’s reward pathways – triggered by certain behaviours releasing ‘feel-good’ chemicals that reinforce actions such as substance use.
Addiction counselling is crucial as addiction and substance abuse issues are prevalent in Australia. Around 1 in 20 Australians experiences either addiction or substance abuse problems, which we know can cause long-term damage to the brain and our body’s internal organs.
Online addiction therapy and support delivered via telehealth is not a new concept. It was already growing steadily prior to 2020.
However, during the global pandemic two factors at play greatly accelerated the adoption of online addiction counselling:
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Forced social distancing which made e-health and online treatment the norm
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Increased feelings of social isolation, heightened levels of uncertainty as a result of ongoing health concerns, record levels of job loss and unemployment drove many Australians deeper in their substance abuse issues
Medicare-rebated addiction treatment with a psychologist for addiction
One misconception about online addiction counselling, compared to face-to-face support, is that it’s not covered under Medicare – this is not the case.
At Online Psychologists Australia, our sessions are Medicare-rebated. You’ll be personally matched with an experienced psychologist for addiction who best meets your unique needs and preferences. Much of your addiction therapy can be reimbursed by Medicare.
How can untreated addiction disorders impact your daily life?
Untreated addiction disorders can have a catastrophic impact on not only your life, but the lives of your loved one around you.
Common addictive vices such as gambling, alcohol or substance abuse can and will interfere with day-to-day life, causing issues such as:
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Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
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Agitation and aggression towards friends and family
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Financial hardships
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Physical side effects of the substances themselves
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Significant damage to vital organs and the brain
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Additional mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression
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Uncharacteristic behaviour such as unmitigated risk taking or theft to support habits
These outcomes often cause a steep decline in quality of life, and many suffering severe addiction become isolated from friends and family.
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What are the common symptoms of depression we encounter?It is important to remember that we all experience symptoms of depression from time to time, and that may not necessarily mean you are depressed. Everybody suffers from depression in their own unique way and no two experiences are identical, however, there are a number of common symptoms we encounter, which are often summarised by feeling down, miserable, sad or hopeless – the loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities you may enjoy. Symptoms can include: Withdrawing from friends and family Restlessness Feeling perpetually tired and fatigued Inability to concentrate or focus on one task Issues with sleep Mood swings Loss or change of appetite Relying on alcohol or sedatives Feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, irritable and sad Thoughts of worthlessness or hopelessness
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How do we treat depression?All of our psychologists are highly trained professionals with a history of success when treating patients suffering from symptoms of depression. Our psychologists don’t prescribe a one-size fits all approach to treating depression, but rather employ a host of evidence-based treatments and therapies proven to help alleviate the symptoms of depression. Your dedicated and personally matched psychologists may use any number of the following techniques: Schema Focused Therapy Assertiveness Training Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Brief Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy Compassion Focused Therapy Behavioural Therapy Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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What are the benefits of seeking help?The upsides of seeking and receiving help for depression are immense. The experienced and professional team at Online Psychologists Australia have seen hundreds of patients experience benefits such as: Improved relationships and friendships Improved physical health Improved sleep and rest Improved feelings of happiness and a restoration of energy Feelings of a burden being lifted Sharper thinking and a better memory A healthier lifestyle A lower risk of future depression, as patients are often better equipped to deal with depressive periods
What can you expect from online addiction counselling?
Before therapy begins, you’ll speak with a team member who’ll match you with a psychologist for addiction that suits your needs.
Once your sessions start, your psychologist will take time to understand your unique background and identify the root causes driving your addiction. These conversations take place in a completely private, non-judgemental, and supportive setting.
Your psychologist for addiction may use a variety of evidence-based therapies to support your recovery, depending on your personal situation.
Recovery takes time – you may also be given tasks or exercises to complete between sessions, aimed at encouraging mindfulness and daily progress.
Get addiction support online today with a professional psychologist
Taking the first step to speak with a psychologist for addiction can be tough, but the benefits are potentially life-changing.
Our empathetic, non-judgemental professionals are ready to support your recovery journey.
At Online Psychologists Australia, we offer a free, no-obligation chat to personally match you with a psychologist for addiction who best understands your needs.
All sessions are eligible for Medicare rebates.
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Get the help you need today.
"The privacy and comfort of having sessions online, but still face-to-face online made me feel so much more at ease. I was able to open-up much quicker and felt like I was making progress after just my first session."
Verified Client, 28
What our clients are saying
"Being able to book in appointments that work around my schedule has been incredible. Speaking to my psychologist has had the most positive impact on my mental wellbeing given the isolation I experienced in 2020."
Verified Client, 41
"The fact I was able to get medicare rebate on my sessions made the whole process so much easier. I've already recommended Online Psychologists Australia to a few friends that have been struggling lately.
Verified Client, 22
Note: Clients are unnamed to protect their privacy.
If you're having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
If you’re having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, there are many organisations that can help you 24 hours, 7 days a week. They include:
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Lifeline - 13 11 14
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Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
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Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
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MensLine Australia (counselling service for men) - 1300 78 99 78
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Kids Helpline (for young people up to 25 years) - 1800 55 1800
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Open Arms (for veterans, ex-serving personnel and their families) - 1800 011 046