Addiction

What Is Addiction?

Addiction is a complex condition that affects both the brain and body, often developing as a way to cope with pain, stress, or emotional overwhelm. Over time, it can interfere with relationships, work, health, and self-esteem.

At Botaitis Therapy Group, we provide a non-judgmental and compassionate environment for clients to explore the roots of addiction, understand patterns of behavior, and begin the process of healing and recovery.

What Are the Different Types of Addiction?

Addiction can take many forms, and not all are tied to substances. Therapy can help you identify underlying emotions and triggers that drive compulsive behaviors and support you in developing healthy coping strategies.

Substance Addictions

  • Alcohol

  • Prescription or recreational drugs

  • Nicotine or vaping

  • Overuse of caffeine or energy stimulants

Behavioral Addictions

  • Gambling

  • Pornography or sex addiction

  • Food or binge eating patterns

  • Shopping, spending, or financial impulsivity

  • Gaming, social media, or screen overuse

These behaviors often share the same emotional roots: stress, anxiety, trauma, or unmet needs. BTG therapists work with clients to uncover what is fueling these patterns and develop tools for self-regulation, awareness, and change.

How Does BTG Approach Therapy for Addiction?

Personalized Healing: Every client’s story is unique. We use individualized approaches that may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, trauma-informed care, or attachment-based therapy.

Understanding Root Causes: Therapy explores how addiction developed as a coping mechanism, allowing you to replace harmful habits with healthier ways of managing stress and emotion.

Relapse Prevention and Skill Building: We help you identify triggers, strengthen emotional regulation, and create systems of accountability and support.

Integrative Care: When needed, BTG therapists collaborate with treatment centers,  psychiatrists, medical professionals, and loved ones to support comprehensive healing.

Family and Relationship Support: Addiction often impacts loved ones. Therapy can include family sessions to rebuild communication, set boundaries, and promote recovery as a shared process.

FAQs About Therapy for Addiction

  • No. Therapy can help you at any stage, whether you are exploring your relationship with substances, looking for harm reduction, or maintaining sobriety.

  • Yes. BTG therapists are trained to support clients dealing with both substance use and behavioral patterns such as gambling, food, or pornography addiction.

  • If a behavior feels out of control, interferes with your relationships, or causes guilt or distress, therapy can help you understand what’s happening and how to change it.

  • Yes. Addiction affects relationships, and including loved ones in therapy can help build understanding, trust, and long-term support.

Meet Our Therapists Who Specialize in Therapy for Addiction

Christina Fornecker, AMFT
Mary Glennan, AMFT & APCC

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to explore therapy for addiction, we’re here to help. Our therapists provide compassionate, evidence-based care in Santa Barbara and online across California. Call us at 805-636-9890 or schedule your consultation to take the first step in your journey.

Related Readings:

Conflict Resolution - Let’s Talk About It (Part 1: Rupture & Repair)

Conflict Resolution - Let’s Talk About It (Part 2: When Repair Fails)