Drug Abuse & Substance Addiction
You are not your addiction. Healing begins with hope.
Drug Addiction Counselling (Substance Use Disorder)
Drug addiction, clinically known as Substance Use Disorder (SUD), is a chronic and progressive condition that affects how the brain functions. It is not a failure of willpower or character. Repeated substance use changes brain chemistry, making it extremely difficult to stop even when the person genuinely wants to.
People with SUD often develop mental, emotional, and physical dependence. Attempts to stop can trigger intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and emotional distress. Recovery is usually not a single event but a process that requires ongoing support, therapy, and understanding of the deeper reasons behind substance use.
What Substances Lead to Addiction?
Addiction can develop from both legal and illegal substances. These include club drugs such as GHB, ketamine, MDMA, and Rohypnol; stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine; hallucinogens including LSD, ayahuasca, peyote, and PCP; inhalants such as aerosols, solvents, and nitrites; opioids like heroin, fentanyl, morphine, codeine, and oxycodone; prescription medications including painkillers, sedatives, and anti-anxiety drugs; anabolic steroids; synthetic substances like K2 or Spice and bath salts; cannabis products including marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids; nicotine and e-cigarettes; as well as combinations of stimulants and depressants.
While these substances differ, they all strongly activate the brain’s reward system, which is what makes them powerfully addictive.
Why Addiction Escalates & Who's at Risk?
Tolerance and Escalation
With repeated use, the brain becomes desensitised to the drug. This means:
Higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect
The person feels unable to function without it
Life revolves around obtaining and using the substance
Common Risk Factors
Genetic predisposition (family history of addiction)
Early substance use (especially in adolescence)
Childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect
Peer pressure and poor parental supervision
Co-existing mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
Environmental exposure to drug use or advertising
How Does Deaddiction Counselling Help?
At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we tailor therapy to each individual’s journey. Karl offers a trauma-informed, non-judgmental space that addresses both the surface behaviours and the root emotional causes of addiction.
What Does Therapy Involve?
- Coping with Withdrawal & Cravings: Learn tools to manage discomfort and stay focused on healing
- Exploring Triggers: Uncover the emotional and environmental causes behind your substance use
- Rebuilding Support Networks: Strengthen ties with loved ones or tap into community support
- Setting Milestones: Create and celebrate meaningful progress
- Fostering Purpose & Sobriety: Build a life that’s not just substance-free, but meaningful and empowered
Why Do People Use Drugs and How Can It Turn Into Addiction?
What Are the Common Reasons for Drug Use?
To feel good or escape emotional pain
To manage stress, anxiety, or trauma
To enhance performance or focus
Due to social pressure or curiosity
What Are the Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder?
Strong cravings and loss of control
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Risky behaviour despite consequences
Physical changes (weight loss, fatigue, bloodshot eyes)
Poor grooming or appearance
Financial trouble
Emotional volatility, isolation, or secrecy
The Legal & Ethical Reality in Singapore
Important:
In Singapore, unprescribed drug use is illegal. Trafficking is punishable by death.
As registered professionals with the Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC) and Singapore Psychological Society (SPS), we are obligated to report illegal acts.
However, we do not judge. If you are ready to seek help, we will support you compassionately—within the legal framework—to guide you toward recovery and safety.
Our Counselling Fees
| Session Type | Investment | Additional Charges | Cancellation Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Person Sessions | SGD 250 | – SGD 50 after-hours surcharge -Transportation fees for out-of-office sessions or different venues – SGD 50 administrative fee may apply where additional insurance coordination or documentation is required | Reschedule or cancel with 36+ hours’ notice. Late changes or no-shows incur full session investment. |
| Virtual Sessions (Zoom) | SGD 250 (Advance PayNow Preferred Rate of SGD 200 may be offered on a case-by-case basis when payment is made using PayNow or direct Bank transfer at least 3 days in advance and no administrative work is required.) | – Same as above (where applicable) | Same as above. |
*For more information on session rates, cancellation policy, accepted payment methods, and other related details, please refer to our Fees and Payment Page*
What Clients say about our Counselling in Singapore
Professionally Trained, Trauma-Informed & Culturally Attuned
Evidence-Based & Grounded in Real Life
Culturally Sensitive & Globally Informed
Respectful of Complex, Delicate Issues
