Addiction treatment by a psychotherapist or narcologist
Introduction
Gaming addiction is a complex problem that requires an integrated approach. In Australia, she is treated by psychologists-psychotherapists, and a doctor-specialist in addictions (addiction medicine specialist, an analogue of the "narcologist"). Understanding their roles, methods and stages of therapy will help you choose the right path to recovery.
1. When to go to a psychotherapist
1. Mild to moderate dependency
Obsessive thoughts about rates, but without serious debts and social consequences.
The first attempt at an "independent" stop did not give a sustainable result.
2. Main tool - CBT
Cognitive behavioral therapy: analysis of automatic thoughts ("if I don't play, I'll lose everything") and replacing them with adaptive settings.
Working out triggers: identifying situations in which there is a desire to play, and developing alternative reactions.
Self-regulation skills: breathing practices, mindfulnes, planning "pauses."
3. Format of work
Individual sessions 50-60 minutes, frequency 1-2 times a week.
Online therapy via Coviu or HealthDirect is possible.
A referral from GP (Mental Health Care Plan) gives a Medicare subsidy for 10 sessions.
2. When to contact an addiction specialist
1. Severe and complex cases
Systematic significant financial losses, debts, family conflicts.
Concomitant mental disorders: severe anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts.
2. Multidisciplinary approach
Drug therapy: if necessary, the doctor will prescribe antidepressants or anxiolytics to stabilize the background.
Medical supervision: control of side effects of drugs, work in tandem with a psychotherapist.
Family counseling: involving relatives to restore trust and develop a support system.
3. Treatment format
Admission to outpatient clinics at Gambler's Help public services or private addiction centers.
Intensive stationary or semi-stationary programs (day programs) lasting from 1 to 4 weeks are possible.
Team work: psychologist, social worker, financial consultant.
3. Stages of complex therapy
1. Assessment and diagnosis
GP's initial appointment → referral to an addiction specialist and psychotherapist.
Assessment of degree of dependence (PGSI), stress level, and comorbid conditions.
2. Stabilization
Immediate measures: self-exclusion (BetStop), technical blockers (Gamban).
Medication correction to relieve acute stress and improve sleep.
3. Elaboration of causes and patterns
CBT sessions to change thinking and behavior.
Group therapy and peer-support, participation in Gamblers Anonymous.
4. Restoring life management skills
Financial coaching: budget plan, debt restructuring through National Debt Helpline.
Training in communication skills, stress management, mindfulnes practices.
5. Consolidation of results and prevention of relapse
Regular "check-ins" with a psychotherapist or addiction specialist.
Participation in support groups, keeping a game diary and monitoring triggers.
4. Choosing the best path
1. Mild addiction
Start with a psychotherapist: CBT, online sessions, self-help.
2. Moderate
Combination of psychotherapy and participation in peer-support; if necessary - short-term drug support.
3. Heavy
Mandatory referral to an addiction specialist, inpatient or semi-inpatient programs, family and financial therapy.
Conclusion
The treatment of gambling addiction in Australia is built on the synergy of psychotherapy and medical care. A psychotherapist will help change thinking and behavior in mild to moderate forms, while an addiction specialist will connect medications and comprehensive supervision in severe cases. A clear understanding of your needs and consistent passage through the stages of therapy guarantee sustainable control over excitement and a return to a full life.
Gaming addiction is a complex problem that requires an integrated approach. In Australia, she is treated by psychologists-psychotherapists, and a doctor-specialist in addictions (addiction medicine specialist, an analogue of the "narcologist"). Understanding their roles, methods and stages of therapy will help you choose the right path to recovery.
1. When to go to a psychotherapist
1. Mild to moderate dependency
Obsessive thoughts about rates, but without serious debts and social consequences.
The first attempt at an "independent" stop did not give a sustainable result.
2. Main tool - CBT
Cognitive behavioral therapy: analysis of automatic thoughts ("if I don't play, I'll lose everything") and replacing them with adaptive settings.
Working out triggers: identifying situations in which there is a desire to play, and developing alternative reactions.
Self-regulation skills: breathing practices, mindfulnes, planning "pauses."
3. Format of work
Individual sessions 50-60 minutes, frequency 1-2 times a week.
Online therapy via Coviu or HealthDirect is possible.
A referral from GP (Mental Health Care Plan) gives a Medicare subsidy for 10 sessions.
2. When to contact an addiction specialist
1. Severe and complex cases
Systematic significant financial losses, debts, family conflicts.
Concomitant mental disorders: severe anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts.
2. Multidisciplinary approach
Drug therapy: if necessary, the doctor will prescribe antidepressants or anxiolytics to stabilize the background.
Medical supervision: control of side effects of drugs, work in tandem with a psychotherapist.
Family counseling: involving relatives to restore trust and develop a support system.
3. Treatment format
Admission to outpatient clinics at Gambler's Help public services or private addiction centers.
Intensive stationary or semi-stationary programs (day programs) lasting from 1 to 4 weeks are possible.
Team work: psychologist, social worker, financial consultant.
3. Stages of complex therapy
1. Assessment and diagnosis
GP's initial appointment → referral to an addiction specialist and psychotherapist.
Assessment of degree of dependence (PGSI), stress level, and comorbid conditions.
2. Stabilization
Immediate measures: self-exclusion (BetStop), technical blockers (Gamban).
Medication correction to relieve acute stress and improve sleep.
3. Elaboration of causes and patterns
CBT sessions to change thinking and behavior.
Group therapy and peer-support, participation in Gamblers Anonymous.
4. Restoring life management skills
Financial coaching: budget plan, debt restructuring through National Debt Helpline.
Training in communication skills, stress management, mindfulnes practices.
5. Consolidation of results and prevention of relapse
Regular "check-ins" with a psychotherapist or addiction specialist.
Participation in support groups, keeping a game diary and monitoring triggers.
4. Choosing the best path
1. Mild addiction
Start with a psychotherapist: CBT, online sessions, self-help.
2. Moderate
Combination of psychotherapy and participation in peer-support; if necessary - short-term drug support.
3. Heavy
Mandatory referral to an addiction specialist, inpatient or semi-inpatient programs, family and financial therapy.
Conclusion
The treatment of gambling addiction in Australia is built on the synergy of psychotherapy and medical care. A psychotherapist will help change thinking and behavior in mild to moderate forms, while an addiction specialist will connect medications and comprehensive supervision in severe cases. A clear understanding of your needs and consistent passage through the stages of therapy guarantee sustainable control over excitement and a return to a full life.
