Trauma Informed Addiction & Compulsive Behavior Treatment

The Trauma and Addiction Connection

 

Addiction often has roots in unresolved trauma. Many who struggle with substance use or compulsive behaviors have experienced some form of trauma—whether from childhood, toxic relationships, violence, or the loss of a loved one. These painful experiences can leave deep emotional wounds, leading some to turn to substances or behaviors like drugs, alcohol, or other habits to cope or numb the pain.

 

Trauma-informed addiction treatment recognizes this powerful connection. Rather than focusing solely on addiction symptoms, this approach addresses the underlying trauma that often fuels addictive behaviors. This shift in focus is crucial because it allows for healing the whole person, not just managing symptoms. Untreated trauma is often a significant factor in the development and persistence of addiction, manifesting in various forms, including alcohol or drug dependency, compulsive gambling, food issues, social media overuse, shopping, internet addiction, and even self-harm.

 

Substances and behaviors often serve as a way to “self-medicate” trauma-driven symptoms such as flashbacks, avoidance, emotional numbing, depression, or distressing body sensations that can trigger cravings and relapse. Modified EMDR protocols for addiction, like the DeTUR and Feeling State Addiction protocols, go beyond traditional treatment by targeting positive feelings, memories, urges, and euphoric recall associated with addictive behaviors. By addressing both the trauma and the “cue-driven” patterns of relapse, we can break this cycle more effectively.

 

With specialized training in these trauma-informed addiction protocols, I provide support to reduce cravings and addictive behaviors while helping you heal the trauma beneath them. Together, we’ll look at the complex factors impacting your life and create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and fosters meaningful, long-term change.