Process Addictions
uncover the root of your behavior
Individual Psychotherapy for Process Addictions
Angela understands that process addictions are not merely isolated behaviors; they often reflect deeper psychological issues and misguided attempts to cope with emotional distress. Psychodynamic psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, provides a comprehensive framework for exploring the complex workings of the mind. It allows individuals to investigate the underlying desires and unmet emotional needs that contribute to these addictions.
Process addictions cover a wide range of behaviors, including self-injury, compulsive shopping, repetitive plastic surgery, excessive gaming, and even social media addiction. Each of these behaviors can offer temporary relief from overwhelming emotions. However, they often mask the core issues causing that pain, leading to a cycle of fleeting relief followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or increased distress.
Engaging in individual psychodynamic therapy can support you in several significant ways:
Uncovering Unconscious Motivations
By expressing whatever comes to mind, you can begin to uncover the hidden thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that drive your process addictions. This therapeutic dialogue facilitates the examination of internal conflicts and unresolved issues—such as childhood experiences, relational dynamics, or traumas—that may have shaped your choices throughout your life. Bringing these unconscious motivations to light will help you gain a clearer understanding of how they influence your current behavior.
Identifying Feelings of Deprivation and Emptiness
A fundamental aspect of talk therapy is encouraging reflection on feelings of deprivation, emptiness, or dissatisfaction in various areas of your life. By recognizing and confronting these feelings, you can develop greater self-awareness and insight into the triggers that lead you to seek comfort through potentially harmful behaviors. This increased awareness is crucial for healing and developing more constructive coping mechanisms.
Establishing Personal Boundaries
A vital goal of psychodynamic therapy is to empower you to establish effective personal boundaries in your relationships and daily life. Clear boundaries define what is acceptable and what is not, creating a framework for meaningful interactions and decision-making. Being willing to set and maintain these boundaries can help protect you from environments or situations that may have previously triggered your addictive tendencies, fostering a sense of control and safety in your life.
Fostering Emotional Resilience
The therapeutic process encourages the development of emotional resilience, allowing you to navigate life's challenges without resorting to maladaptive behaviors. Exploring and expressing your emotions in therapy can help cultivate a more stable sense of self and direction.
Longing and Belonging Psychotherapy Group
The "Longing and Belonging" psychotherapy group is designed for individuals facing deep feelings of emptiness and disconnection. This bi-weekly group encourages participants to express what is on their minds, transforming vague feelings and thoughts into clear conversations. Sessions are structured to engage members in real-time discussions, allowing them to explore their emotional landscapes, share their stories, and actively listen to one another. As a result, participants gain valuable insights into their experiences and the relationships that shape their lives. This collective journey helps individuals find their voices and fosters a strong sense of belonging within the group. Together, members navigate the complexities of their emotional challenges, cultivating deeper connections and initiating meaningful healing on their paths to fulfillment.
Angela highly recommends a combination of individual and group psychotherapy to treat process addictions.
“I had nothing and I was still changed. Like a costume, my numbness was taken away. Then hunger was added.”