"Addiction is not the opposite of sobriety. It's the opposite of connection. In our work together, healing begins when you feel seen, not judged."
—Abigail Bettinelli
Evidence-Based Therapy for Alcohol, Drug, and Behavioural Addictions
Addiction can feel like a silent force that pulls your life off course—gradually at first, then all at once. Whether you’re struggling with alcohol use, drug dependence, or compulsive behaviours like gambling or sex, you’re not alone. At Thrive, we offer compassionate, evidence-informed therapy to help you understand the root of your addiction and build a path toward freedom.
We don’t just treat symptoms—we get to the source.
Understanding Addiction: More Than A Habit
Addiction isn’t a failure of willpower. It’s often a deeply rooted response to pain, trauma, disconnection, or emotional overwhelm. Many of our clients come to us having tried to quit on their own—sometimes many times. They’re exhausted, ashamed, and unsure what recovery even looks like anymore. Our approach to addiction therapy recognizes the complexity of each person’s experience. We explore what the addiction is doing for you before we ask what it’s doing to you.
What You'll Find At Thrive
- Experienced counsellor specializing in alcohol & drug rehab
- Holistic therapy: CBT, DBT, EMDR, trauma-informed care
- Licensed therapists familiar with local recovery community
- Flexible in-person & online sessions to suit your schedule
Meet Joel Myers, RTC
Joel is a trauma-informed addiction therapist who blends clinical skill with deep empathy and lived experience. He supports individuals navigating addictive behaviours, existential pain, and unresolved trauma—offering a space that is non-judgmental, attuned, and deeply human.
Joel works from a holistic, integrative perspective that extends beyond traditional talk therapy. His sessions often incorporate body-based approaches like breathwork, meditation, and sound healing, helping clients reconnect to themselves in a grounded, embodied way. Whether you’re facing overwhelming emotions, unhelpful patterns, or simply need someone to truly listen, Joel is here to walk with you—toward healing, clarity, and a more connected life.
Therapy for Alcohol and Substance Use
Whether you’re trying to cut back or completely stop, our counsellors offer personalized support for alcohol addiction and drug dependence. We use therapeutic approaches like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care to help you identify triggers, build new coping tools, and stay grounded during cravings. We also supports harm reduction goals, and we’re deeply familiar with the local landscape of detox, rehab, and support groups if additional care is needed.
Support for Behavioural and Process Addictions
Not all addictions involve substances. Some of the most misunderstood and shame-loaded addictions involve behaviours—compulsive pornography use, gambling, binge eating, shopping, or internet addiction. These behaviours often develop as attempts to self-soothe or manage unspoken emotional pain. At Thrive, we help you to explore the emotional ecosystem beneath the compulsion so that healing happens at the root. You don’t need to do this alone, and you’re not broken.
Addiction and Mental Health: The Dual Diagnosis Lens
Addiction rarely exists in isolation. Many of our clients also struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD. In fact, these underlying issues often fuel the addiction. That’s why our therapists use an integrated model that treats co-occurring disorders simultaneously. You shouldn’t have to choose between healing your mental health or overcoming addiction. They’re part of the same conversation.
A Non-Judgmental Space to Begin Again
We know the courage it takes to walk through the door (or click the link). Many people carry deep shame around addiction—especially when they’ve relapsed, hurt loved ones, or kept it hidden for years. Our job is not to judge. It’s to walk beside you with honesty, clarity, and care. No matter how far gone things feel, it’s not too late. Addiction counselling Vancouver can be the beginning of something new.
Ready To Get Help?
If you’re searching for addiction counselling Vancouver, you’ve already taken a powerful first step. Whether you’re ready to commit to change or simply want to explore what recovery might look like, we’re here. We’ll listen to your story, support your goals, and help you reconnect with who you really are—beyond the addiction.
FAQ – Addiction Counselling Vancouver
What types of addictions do you treat?
We work with substance addictions (alcohol, cocaine, opioids, cannabis, stimulants, etc.) and behavioural addictions (porn, gambling, food, gaming, etc.). We also treat co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Is this the same as rehab?
No. Our services are outpatient addiction counselling Vancouver—ideal if you’re looking for professional support while maintaining your daily life. We can also help connect you with inpatient programs if needed.
What if I relapse?
Relapse is often part of recovery. We’ll work with you to understand what happened, reduce shame, and get back on track.
Do you offer online addiction counselling in Vancouver?
Yes. We offer secure online sessions, so you can access therapy from the comfort and privacy of your home.
How much does it cost?
Our rate is $175 per session. We provide receipts for insurance reimbursement. More frequently we are able to direct bill insurance companies.


