Addictions Counselling & Specialty Services

Recovering from substance use and other out-of-control behaviours is a deeply personal journey. At Authentic You, we provide compassionate counselling in South Edmonton and online across Alberta. Our trauma‑informed, harm‑reduction and abstinence approaches can help you or your loved one regain control, reconnect with your values, and build a healthier, long-lasting life.

Serving Edmonton and Surrounding Communities

Our addiction therapy services are available to adults in Edmonton, Leduc, Beaumont, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, and nearby communities, as well as throughout Alberta via secure online video and phone sessions. Our counsellors work flexibly to meet you in person or virtually, and to support your recovery.

Our Values

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Ethical, transparent, client-centered care

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Respect for your pace, needs, boundaries, and lived experience

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A confidential, comfortable environment where you can show up as you are

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Inclusive and culturally aware practice

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Compassionate, Non‑judgmental Care

Addictions can involve substance use, gambling, shopping, sex, porn, video games, phones or other behaviours that feel out of control. We know that addiction is not a moral failing but a complex condition shaped by trauma, mental health and social factors. Our therapists meet you where you are, whether you seek abstinence or harm reduction. Treatment may include individual counselling, relapse‑prevention planning and referrals to community resources such as detox programs, peer‑support groups, sober living, outpatient and inpatient services in Alberta and across Canada.

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Trauma‑Informed and Holistic Approaches

Addictions often co‑occur with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. We use trauma‑informed interventions like CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing (MI), somatic and mindfulness approaches to help you process painful experiences and build resilience. Evidence shows that modalities such as CBT are an effective psychological treatment for a range of disorders, and harm‑reduction services can reduce negative consequences even when abstinence is not the immediate goal. Our holistic perspective considers your physical health, relationships and cultural background.

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Reclaim control and rebuild your life today.

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Specialized Services and Referrals

Our addictions counsellors provide support for substance use (alcohol, drugs), behavioural addictions (gambling, food, gaming), concurrent disorders and chronic pain. We offer trauma‑specific therapy, relapse‑prevention support and connections to detox and residential programs when needed. We also collaborate with physicians and psychiatrists to coordinate treatment planning and medication management.

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Support for Families and Loved Ones

Addictions affect families, partners and friends. We provide psychoeducation and counselling for people touched by addictions to help them further understand the physical, psychological and emotional process of addiction, set healthy boundaries and support recovery. Family and/or couples sessions address communication, enablement, and self-care while helping a loved one. Our team can also coordinate planning interventions to give the family unit a voice with the person who is struggling with addictions.

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FAQs

What happens during the first session?

Your counsellor will get to know you, explore your history with addictions and related concerns while discussing treatment goals. Together you’ll develop a collaborative treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.

Do I have to quit entirely?

No. We support harm‑reduction goals as well as abstinence. Treatment options are flexible because research shows there is no single approach to substance use treatment.

How long does counselling last?

Length varies. Some clients attend a few sessions for relapse‑prevention planning; others engage in longer‑term therapy to address trauma and mental health symptoms for their long term recovery.

Do you offer online counselling?

Yes. We provide secure video and phone sessions to adults across Alberta, making it easier to access support from home.

Begin Your Journey with Authentic You

Finding freedom from addictions is possible. Authentic You offers compassionate counselling in South Edmonton and online, helping you build a better life with healthier habits and lifestyle. Our trauma‑informed, harm‑reduction approaches empower you to reclaim yourself.