Therapy for Substance Use in Melbourne

Substance use can develop for many reasons, including stress, trauma, mental health challenges, or as a way to cope with difficult emotions. While some people are able to manage their use, others may find it negatively impacting their relationships, work, and overall well-being.

Struggling with alcohol or drug use does not mean a lack of willpower—it often involves deeper psychological and emotional factors that benefit from professional support.

Signs Substance Use May Be a Concern

  • Using substances to manage stress, anxiety, or emotions

  • Difficulty controlling the amount or frequency of use

  • Increased tolerance or withdrawal symptoms

  • Impact on relationships, work, or daily responsibilities

  • Feeling guilt or shame about use but struggling to change

How We Can Help

At Toolbox Clinic, our psychologists provide a non-judgmental and supportive space to explore your relationship with substances and work toward meaningful change. Our approach is tailored to each individual and may include:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Identifying triggers, breaking unhelpful patterns, and developing healthier coping strategies

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): Exploring personal values and motivation for change

  • Self-Compassion Therapy: Reducing shame and building self-acceptance

  • Emotion-Focused Therapy: Understanding and processing underlying emotions that contribute to substance use

  • Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP): Addressing unresolved emotional conflicts that may drive use

Seeking Support

If substance use is interfering with your life, you don’t have to face it alone. Support is available, whether your goal is to cut down, stop completely, or simply understand your patterns better.