Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd

Substance Addiction Counselling in Singapore

We deal with the pain behind the habit.

Addressing Alcohol Dependence and Drug Abuse with Compassion and Clarity

Work with a trusted therapist to understand your patterns, triggers, and path to recovery.

Substance addiction is more than just repeated use — it’s a complex, chronic condition that impacts the brain, behaviour, and every aspect of life. Whether you’re struggling with alcohol dependence, drug misuse, or prescription medication overuse, the effects can be devastating — not just for the individual, but for families and communities as well. At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we provide a space where you are seen, heard, and supported—a safe, private environment where you can begin to rebuild and start your journey toward freedom. Addiction is not a failure. It’s a response to pain, often rooted in childhood trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), or attachment wounds. Those struggling with addiction are often deeply sensitive individuals, seeking relief through unsustainable coping mechanisms.

Our approach is about progress, not perfection. Imagine taking steps—one at a time—toward reclaiming your life. Picture the freedom of rebuilding relationships and rediscovering who you are. Through structure, compassion, and tough love, we guide individuals and families toward recovery. By focusing on your strengths and simple, achievable goals, we help you break free from cycles of guilt and shame, uncover the root causes of addiction, and develop healthier ways to cope. Recovery is a process, not a race. Let our experienced counsellors walk beside you, helping you rediscover the joy, freedom, and connection that addiction may have taken away. You are not alone. With the right support, hope becomes reality, and healing becomes possible.

What Falls Under Substance Addiction?

🔹 Alcohol Dependence

  • Daily drinking or binge episodes

  • Difficulty functioning without alcohol

  • Drinking to numb emotions, trauma, or stress

  • Lying or hiding drinking habits

  • Physical symptoms (shakes, blackouts, withdrawal)

🔹 Drug & Substance Abuse

  • Use of illegal drugs (e.g., cannabis, heroin, meth)

  • Misuse of prescription medication (e.g., sleeping pills, painkillers)

  • Dependency for emotional regulation

  • Repeated relapse despite intentions to stop

  • Legal, relational, or employment consequences

Our Substance Abuse/Addiction Counselling Services

Alcohol Dependency

Alcohol Dependency

Explore and address alcohol dependency in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

Substance Abuse

Substance Abuse

Explore and address substance abuse (drug use, prescription medication misuse, smoking & vaping counselling services).

Understanding What You’re Facing

Addiction is not a failure or a lack of willpower—it’s a complex condition that affects your brain, emotions, and relationships. You may feel weighed down by shame, guilt, or helplessness, but these feelings don’t have to define your journey. With compassionate addiction therapy in Singapore, we’ll help you uncover the root causes of your addiction and develop healthier ways to cope.

Struggling with addiction often brings intense emotions that ripple through every aspect of your life. You may feel like you’ve lost control over your decisions or worry that change is impossible. But recovery isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. By addressing the fear and pain driving your addiction, we’ll help you regain control, rebuild your confidence, and rediscover the possibilities of a life free from harmful behaviours.

Signs You May Be Struggling with a Substance Use Disorder

Recognising the signs early can lead to faster intervention and recovery:

  • 🚨 Strong cravings or urges to use the substance

  • 🔄 Failed attempts to cut down or quit

  • 🧠 Obsessive thinking or preoccupation with using

  • 😞 Mood swings, depression, or anxiety when not using

  • 🧍‍♂️ Social withdrawal or isolation

  • 💸 Financial or legal issues linked to use

  • 🛏️ Neglect of daily responsibilities and routines

How Addiction Counselling can Help?

Improve Communication

Develop effective dialogue and understanding

Resolve Conflicts

Learn constructive conflict resolution skills

Reignite Intimacy

Restore emotional and physical closeness

Rebuild Trust

Work on regaining and maintaining trust

Heal Past Wounds

 Address and heal from past traumas and issues

Align Expectations

Manage and align relationship expectations

Navigate Life Changes

Handle transitions like parenthood or relocation.

Strengthen Bonds

Foster a deeper connection and mutual support. 

Our Counselling Fees

Session TypeInvestmentAdditional ChargesCancellation Policy
In-Person SessionsSGD 250

SGD 50 after-hours surcharge

-Transportation fees for out-of-office sessions or different venues

Reschedule or cancel with 36+ hours’ notice.
Late changes or no-shows incur full session investment.
Virtual Sessions (Zoom)

SGD 200 (PayNow)

SGD 250 (Other Methods)

SGD 50 after-hours surchargeSame as above.

What Makes Our Addiction Counselling Unique?

Our approach combines expertise with empathy, ensuring that you or your loved ones receive the best care. Here’s how we stand out:

Focused on What Matters Most
We address the key aspects of addiction recovery: emotional support, evidence-based therapies, and rebuilding relationships.

Expertise You Can Trust
With over 20 years of professional experience and training in advanced therapies like EMDR, EFT, and trauma care, we are a trusted name in addiction counselling in Singapore.

Proven Results
“Karl is an amazing counsellor who helped me overcome years of anxiety and addiction. I’ve never felt better!” – Matthias Ang, Google Review.

Take Action Today
Recovery starts with the first step. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can take back control and begin living the life you deserve.

Personalised Care, Limited Availability
We offer a highly personalised approach with limited weekly slots to ensure every client gets the attention they deserve. Book your session today.

Free Consultation to Get Started
Unsure where to begin? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation call to explore how we can support your recovery journey.

Explore Free Addiction Counselling Resources For Individuals and Families

Looking for additional support and insights to guide your recovery journey? Visit our dedicated Resource Page for Addiction Counselling Singapore. Discover a carefully curated selection of articles, books, and movies that delve into the complexities of addiction.

Whether you’re seeking strategies to strengthen your resilience, tools to aid recovery, or a deeper understanding of how addiction impacts the mind and body, these resources offer invaluable guidance. Take the first step toward empowerment with expert-recommended materials designed to inspire and inform.

Why Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd is considered a Premier  deAddiction Counselling Centre in Singapore?

Experienced & Gay Affirming Professionally Trained Therapist

Personalised Care & Evidence Based Approach

Cultural and Gender Sensitivity

Holistic Understanding of LGBTQIA+ Issues

Confidential and Non Judgmental Supportive Space

Testimonials -
What Clients Say About Us

FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Addict?

An addict is an individual who has developed a dependency on a substance (such as alcohol, drugs, or nicotine) or a behaviour (such as gambling, gaming, or shopping). This dependency results in compulsive and often uncontrollable behaviours, even in the face of negative consequences.

Signs of Addiction

Recognising addiction involves observing a range of physical, behavioural, and psychological signs. Here are some common indicators:

Physical Signs:

  1. Tolerance: Needing more of the substance or engaging more frequently in the behaviour to achieve the same effect.
  2. Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing physical or emotional symptoms when not using the substance or engaging in the behaviour (e.g., anxiety, irritability, tremors).
  3. Changes in Appearance: Noticeable changes in weight, hygiene, and overall appearance.
  4. Health Issues: Development of health problems related to the substance use or behaviour (e.g., liver damage from alcohol, lung disease from smoking).

Behavioural Signs:

  1. Loss of Control: Inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behaviour, even when wanting to.
  2. Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring or neglecting work, school, or family obligations due to the substance use or behaviour.
  3. Secretive Behaviour: Hiding the substance use or behaviour from others, becoming more isolated.
  4. Financial Problems: Spending excessive amounts of money on the substance or behaviour, leading to financial issues.

Psychological Signs:

  1. Cravings: Intense urges or cravings to use the substance or engage in the behaviour.
  2. Emotional Changes: Increased anxiety, depression, mood swings, or irritability.
  3. Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about the substance or behaviour, planning how to obtain or engage in it.
  4. Denial: Denying the extent of the problem or making excuses for the substance use or behaviour.

How Can One Become an Addict?

Addiction can develop due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors:

Genetic Factors:

  1. Family History: A family history of addiction can increase the risk due to genetic predisposition.
  2. Biological Differences: Variations in brain chemistry and function can make some individuals more susceptible to addiction.

Environmental Factors:

  1. Exposure: Early exposure to addictive substances or behaviours can increase the risk of developing an addiction.
  2. Stress and Trauma: High levels of stress or exposure to traumatic events can lead individuals to use substances or behaviours as coping mechanisms.
  3. Peer Pressure: Social environments where substance use or addictive behaviours are prevalent can influence individuals to partake.

Psychological Factors:

  1. Mental Health Disorders: Conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD can increase the risk of addiction as individuals may use substances or behaviours to self-medicate.
  2. Personality Traits: Traits such as impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and risk-taking can contribute to the development of addiction.

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterised by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It can involve not only substances but also behaviours like gambling, gaming, or shopping.

Characteristics of Addiction:

  1. Compulsion: A strong urge to engage in the addictive behaviour or use the substance.
  2. Loss of Control: Inability to control the amount or frequency of use.
  3. Negative Consequences: Continued use despite awareness of the negative impact on one’s health, relationships, and life.
  4. Denial: Refusing to acknowledge the severity of the problem.

Recognising the signs of addiction and understanding how it develops is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Seeking help from healthcare professionals, counsellors, or support groups can significantly improve the chances of overcoming addiction and leading a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Addiction is often referred to as a progressive disease because it tends to worsen over time if left untreated. The term “progressive” indicates that the symptoms and negative consequences of addiction increase in severity and frequency. Here are some key reasons why addiction is considered a progressive disease:

1. Escalation of Use:

  • Tolerance: Over time, individuals with addiction develop tolerance, meaning they need to use more of the substance or engage more frequently in the behaviour to achieve the same effect. This leads to escalating use.
  • Increased Frequency: The frequency of substance use or engagement in the addictive behaviour often increases as the addiction progresses.

2. Worsening Physical Health:

  • Health Deterioration: Chronic use of addictive substances or behaviours can lead to significant physical health problems, such as liver disease, heart disease, respiratory issues, and neurological damage.
  • Compounded Health Issues: As addiction progresses, multiple health issues can compound, leading to a decline in overall health.

3. Mental Health Decline:

  • Psychological Effects: Addiction often leads to worsening mental health, including increased anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders.
  • Cognitive Decline: Long-term addiction can impair cognitive functions such as memory, decision-making, and problem-solving.

4. Behavioral Changes:

  • Increased Risk-Taking: As addiction progresses, individuals may engage in increasingly risky behaviours to obtain the substance or fulfil the addictive behaviour.
  • Neglect of Responsibilities: There is often a gradual but increasing neglect of personal, professional, and social responsibilities.

5. Social Consequences:

  • Isolation: Individuals may become increasingly isolated from friends and family as they prioritise their addiction over relationships.
  • Strained Relationships: Ongoing addiction can strain or break relationships due to trust issues, neglect, and harmful behaviours.

6. Impact on Daily Life:

  • Diminished Quality of Life: Over time, addiction can significantly diminish the overall quality of life, affecting employment, education, and daily functioning.
  • Financial Problems: Progressive addiction often leads to severe financial issues due to the costs associated with sustaining the addiction.

7. Compulsion and Loss of Control:

  • Increased Compulsion: The compulsion to use substances or engage in addictive behaviours often becomes stronger and more uncontrollable.
  • Loss of Control: As the addiction progresses, individuals may find it increasingly difficult to control their behaviour despite the negative consequences.

8. Withdrawal Symptoms:

  • Severity of Withdrawal: Withdrawal symptoms can become more severe over time, making it harder for individuals to quit without professional help.
  • Fear of Withdrawal: The fear of experiencing withdrawal symptoms can perpetuate the cycle of addiction, leading to further progression.

Importance of Early Intervention:

Due to the progressive nature of addiction, early intervention is crucial. Addressing addiction early can prevent the worsening of symptoms and the development of more severe health and social consequences. Treatment options such as therapy, counselling, support groups, and medical intervention can help individuals manage and overcome their addiction, improving their chances of long-term recovery and a better quality of life.

Addiction counselling is a professional therapeutic service that helps individuals understand and overcome their addiction through personalized strategies, emotional support, and coping mechanisms to maintain long-term recovery.

The Disease Model of Addiction

The disease model of addiction views addiction as a chronic, relapsing disease that changes the brain’s structure and function. This model emphasises that addiction is not a moral failing or lack of willpower but a medical condition that requires treatment and management. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Key Features of the Disease Model:

  1. Chronic Condition:

    • Addiction is considered a long-term condition that can be managed but not cured. Similar to other chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension, addiction requires ongoing treatment and lifestyle changes.
  2. Brain Changes:

    • Repeated use of addictive substances or behaviours leads to significant changes in the brain. These changes affect areas involved in reward, motivation, memory, and control, making it difficult for individuals to resist the urge to use or engage in the addictive behaviour.
  3. Genetic and Environmental Factors:

    • The disease model recognises that both genetic predispositions and environmental factors contribute to the development of addiction. This includes family history, early exposure to substances, and stressful or traumatic life experiences.
  4. Progressive Nature:

    • Addiction tends to worsen over time if left untreated. This progressive nature means that the consequences and severity of the addiction increase, impacting an individual’s health, relationships, and overall functioning.

Addiction and Brain Changes

Addiction is not just about a lack of control or willpower. It involves profound changes in the brain that affect behaviour. Here’s how:

  1. Reward System:

    • Addictive substances and behaviours overstimulate the brain’s reward system, releasing large amounts of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This creates a strong association between the substance or behaviour and pleasure.
  2. Tolerance:

    • Over time, the brain adjusts to the high levels of dopamine by reducing its own production or the number of dopamine receptors. This leads to tolerance, where more of the substance or more frequent engagement in the behaviour is needed to achieve the same pleasurable effect.
  3. Dependence:

    • As tolerance builds, the brain becomes dependent on the substance or behaviour to function normally. Without it, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms, including physical and emotional distress.
  4. Compulsion and Cravings:

    • The changes in the brain also affect the areas responsible for judgment, decision-making, and self-control. This leads to compulsive use and intense cravings, even in the face of negative consequences.
  5. Memory and Learning:

    • The brain forms powerful associations between the substance or behaviour and certain cues or contexts. This learning process means that exposure to these cues can trigger strong urges to use, even after long periods of abstinence.

Addiction is About Change, Not Control

Given the brain changes involved in addiction, recovery is less about exercising control over use and more about initiating and sustaining change in behaviour and lifestyle. Here’s how:

  1. Treatment and Support:

    • Effective treatment for addiction often involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support groups. These treatments help manage withdrawal symptoms, address underlying psychological issues, and provide strategies for coping without relying on the addictive substance or behaviour.
  2. Behavioural Therapy:

    • Therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) help individuals identify and change the thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their addiction. Therapy also focuses on developing healthy coping mechanisms and life skills.
  3. Medication:

    • In some cases, medications can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to abstain from substance use. Medications can also treat co-occurring mental health disorders, improving overall treatment outcomes.
  4. Lifestyle Changes:

    • Recovery involves making significant lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers, building a supportive social network, and engaging in healthy activities that promote well-being.
  5. Relapse Prevention:

    • Understanding that relapse is often a part of the recovery journey helps individuals prepare for and manage setbacks. Ongoing support and treatment adjustments can help prevent relapse and maintain long-term recovery.
  6. Support Systems:

    • Building and maintaining strong support systems, including family, friends, and support groups, is crucial for sustained recovery. These systems provide encouragement, accountability, and a sense of community.

In summary, the disease model of addiction highlights that addiction is a medical condition involving significant brain changes, rather than a matter of willpower or control. Effective recovery focuses on initiating and maintaining change through comprehensive treatment, behavioural therapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, and robust support systems.

Substance addiction involves dependence on drugs or alcohol, while process addiction relates to compulsive behaviors such as gambling, shopping, or internet use. Both types can disrupt daily life and require professional intervention.

The coping model of addiction posits that addictive behaviors serve as a means for individuals to cope with stress, emotional pain, and other psychological distress. According to this model, addiction develops and persists because the substance use or behavior provides temporary relief or escape from uncomfortable emotions and situations. Key components of the coping model of addiction include:

1. Stress and Emotional Pain

  • Individuals often turn to substances or addictive behaviors as a way to manage stress and emotional pain. This can include anxiety, depression, trauma, loneliness, and other negative emotional states. The addiction provides a temporary reprieve from these feelings.

2. Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms

  • Addictive behaviors are seen as maladaptive coping mechanisms. Instead of addressing the root causes of their distress or developing healthy coping strategies, individuals rely on substances or behaviors that ultimately exacerbate their problems and create a cycle of dependence.

3. Immediate Relief and Reinforcement

  • The immediate relief provided by addictive behaviors reinforces their use. The brain’s reward system releases dopamine during substance use or addictive activities, creating pleasurable sensations that encourage repetition. Over time, this reinforcement strengthens the addiction.

4. Avoidance of Problems

  • Addictive behaviors allow individuals to avoid confronting their problems directly. By numbing or escaping their emotional pain, they temporarily sidestep the need to deal with underlying issues, which can include unresolved trauma, relationship problems, or personal insecurities.

5. Development of Tolerance

  • As individuals continue to use substances or engage in addictive behaviors to cope, they often develop a tolerance. This means they need increasing amounts of the substance or more frequent engagement in the behavior to achieve the same level of relief, further entrenching the addiction.

6. Impact on Mental Health

  • While initially providing temporary relief, addiction often worsens mental health over time. The stress of maintaining the addiction, the consequences of addictive behaviors, and the neglect of underlying issues can all contribute to deteriorating mental health, creating a vicious cycle.

7. Integrated Treatment Approaches

  • The coping model emphasizes the importance of developing healthy coping strategies to replace addictive behaviors. Treatment approaches often include:
    • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, and develop healthy coping skills.
    • Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises to manage stress and emotional pain.
    • Support Groups: Provide a sense of community and shared experience, helping individuals feel less isolated in their struggles.
    • Trauma-Informed Care: Addresses underlying trauma that may contribute to addiction, helping individuals process and heal from past experiences.
    • Lifestyle Changes: Encourages the adoption of healthier habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, to improve overall well-being.

8. Building Resilience

  • Effective treatment also focuses on building resilience. This involves developing the ability to bounce back from adversity, handle stress in a healthy way, and maintain emotional balance. Building resilience can help individuals manage future challenges without resorting to addictive behaviors.

By understanding addiction as a coping mechanism, this model provides a framework for addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of addiction. It emphasizes the importance of developing healthy ways to manage stress and emotional pain, ultimately leading to more sustainable recovery and well-being.

The trauma model of addiction posits that unresolved trauma and adverse life experiences significantly contribute to the development and perpetuation of addictive behaviors. This model suggests that individuals use substances or engage in addictive behaviors as a way to cope with the emotional pain and distress caused by trauma. Key components of the trauma model of addiction include:

1. Underlying Trauma

Trauma can result from a variety of experiences, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, violence, loss, or other significant adverse events. These experiences can create deep emotional wounds that, if left unaddressed, can lead individuals to seek relief through addictive behaviors.

2. Self-Medication

According to the trauma model, individuals may use substances or engage in addictive behaviors as a form of self-medication to numb or escape the pain associated with their traumatic experiences. This coping mechanism provides temporary relief but often leads to a cycle of dependence and addiction.

3. Dysregulation of the Stress Response

Trauma can alter the body’s stress response system, leading to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This dysregulation can result in heightened sensitivity to stress and difficulty managing emotions, making individuals more vulnerable to using substances or behaviors to cope.

4. Attachment and Relationship Issues

Trauma, especially in early childhood, can disrupt the development of healthy attachment and relationships. This can lead to feelings of isolation, mistrust, and difficulty forming meaningful connections, which can drive individuals towards addictive behaviors as a way to fill the void or manage emotional distress.

5. Re-enactment and Avoidance

Individuals with unresolved trauma may re-enact aspects of their trauma through addictive behaviors, often unconsciously. This re-enactment can serve as a way to gain a sense of control or familiarity, even if it is harmful. Additionally, avoidance of trauma-related thoughts and feelings can reinforce the use of substances or behaviors as a coping mechanism.

6. Integrated Treatment Approaches

The trauma model of addiction emphasizes the importance of addressing both trauma and addiction simultaneously for effective treatment. Integrated treatment approaches may include trauma-informed care, therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other modalities that focus on healing trauma and developing healthy coping strategies.

7. Safety and Stabilization

Creating a sense of safety and stability is a critical first step in the treatment of individuals with trauma and addiction. This involves establishing a supportive therapeutic environment, building trust, and helping individuals develop skills to manage distress and regulate emotions.

By understanding and addressing the role of trauma in addiction, the trauma model provides a comprehensive framework for helping individuals heal from both their addiction and the underlying emotional wounds that contribute to it.

Addiction is considered a chronic condition that can be effectively managed but not cured. Recovery involves continuous effort, support, and sometimes ongoing treatment to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.

The duration of de-addiction counselling varies based on individual needs, the severity of the addiction, and progress in therapy. It can range from several months to years, with long-term support often being beneficial.

Addiction is recognized as a disease because it involves changes in brain chemistry and function. This understanding promotes compassionate treatment and support rather than blame. However, individuals remain responsible for seeking help and working towards recovery. 

A “dry drunk” refers to someone who abstains from substances but has not addressed the underlying emotional and psychological issues. True recovery involves more than just abstinence; it requires addressing the root causes of addiction.

Codependency is a behavioral condition where one person enables another’s addiction or unhealthy behavior, often through excessive emotional or psychological reliance. It can be detrimental to both parties involved.

The 3Cs of codependency are: You didn’t cause it, you can’t control it, and you can’t cure it. These principles help individuals understand their limitations in managing another person’s addiction.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA):

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship of individuals who share their experiences, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from alcoholism. The primary purpose of AA is to help alcoholics achieve sobriety.

Key Features:

  1. Membership: Open to anyone who wants to stop drinking. There are no membership fees or dues.
  2. 12-Step Program: The recovery program is based on the 12 steps, which involve admitting powerlessness over alcohol, seeking help from a higher power, making amends for past wrongs, and maintaining sobriety through spiritual and personal growth.
  3. Meetings: Regular meetings where members share their stories and support each other. These can be open (anyone can attend) or closed (only for those who identify as alcoholics).
  4. Anonymity: Members often use first names only to maintain privacy and anonymity.

Al-Anon:

Al-Anon Family Groups is a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experiences, strength, and hope to solve their common problems. Al-Anon is dedicated to helping family members and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with someone with a drinking problem.

Key Features:

  1. Membership: Open to anyone affected by someone else’s drinking. There are no membership fees or dues.
  2. 12-Step Program: Similar to AA, Al-Anon uses a 12-step program focused on accepting powerlessness over the alcoholic’s behaviour, seeking help from a higher power, making personal changes, and improving overall well-being.
  3. Meetings: Regular meetings where members share their experiences and support each other. These can be open or closed meetings.
  4. Anonymity: Members often use first names only to maintain privacy and anonymity.

Differences Between AA and Al-Anon:

  1. Primary Focus:

    • AA: Focuses on helping individuals recover from alcoholism.
    • Al-Anon: Focuses on helping the family members and friends of alcoholics cope with the impact of their loved one’s drinking.
  2. Target Audience:

    • AA: Individuals who have a desire to stop drinking.
    • Al-Anon: Relatives and friends of individuals with a drinking problem.
  3. Meeting Content:

    • AA: Members discuss their personal experiences with alcoholism, the challenges of maintaining sobriety, and the steps they are taking to stay sober.
    • Al-Anon: Members discuss their experiences living with or being affected by someone else’s drinking, focusing on their own recovery and well-being.
  4. Support Type:

    • AA: Peer support from other individuals who have experienced alcoholism.
    • Al-Anon: Peer support from other individuals who have been affected by someone else’s alcoholism.
  5. 12 Steps Application:

    • AA: The 12 steps are applied to the individual’s own battle with alcohol addiction.
    • Al-Anon: The 12 steps are applied to the individual’s recovery from the effects of someone else’s drinking, focusing on personal growth and self-care.

Both AA and Al-Anon provide vital support and community for those affected by alcoholism, though their focus and membership differ significantly.

The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA):

  1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.
  2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
  3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
  4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
  5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
  6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
  7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
  8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
  9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
  10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
  11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
  12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

The 12 Steps of Narcotics Anonymous (NA):

  1. We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction, that our lives had become unmanageable.
  2. We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
  3. We made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
  4. We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
  5. We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
  6. We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
  7. We humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
  8. We made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
  9. We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
  10. We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
  11. We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
  12. Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

The 12 Steps of Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA):

  1. We admitted we were powerless over addictive sexual behavior—that our lives had become unmanageable.
  2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
  3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God.
  4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
  5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
  6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
  7. Humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings.
  8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.
  9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
  10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
  11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God’s will for us and the power to carry that out.
  12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to other sex addicts and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

The 12 Steps of Gamblers Anonymous (GA):

  1. We admitted we were powerless over gambling—that our lives had become unmanageable.
  2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to a normal way of thinking and living.
  3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of this Power of our own understanding.
  4. Made a searching and fearless moral and financial inventory of ourselves.
  5. Admitted to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
  6. Were entirely ready to have these defects of character removed.
  7. Humbly asked God (of our understanding) to remove our shortcomings.
  8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.
  9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
  10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.
  11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God (as we understood Him), praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
  12. Having made an effort to practice these principles in all our affairs, we tried to carry this message to other compulsive gamblers.

Each of these 12-step programs uses a similar framework adapted to address the specific challenges associated with different types of addictions.

These steps provide a framework for individuals to follow in their recovery journey, emphasising self-awareness, responsibility, and the importance of community and spirituality.

Significance of the 4th and 5th Steps of the 12-Step Program:

4th Step: “Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.”

  • Self-Reflection: The 4th step requires individuals to take an honest look at their lives, behaviors, and patterns. This step involves listing resentments, fears, harms done to others, and any character defects.
  • Accountability: It helps individuals recognize and accept responsibility for their actions and the impact they have had on their lives and the lives of others.
  • Foundation for Change: By identifying these aspects, individuals can begin to understand the root causes of their addiction and prepare for the changes needed for recovery.

5th Step: “Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.”

  • Sharing and Honesty: This step involves sharing the moral inventory taken in Step 4 with another person, often a sponsor or counselor, and with a higher power (as understood by the individual).
  • Relief and Humility: Admitting these faults to another human being can provide a sense of relief and humility, breaking the isolation and secrecy that often accompanies addiction.
  • Building Trust: This step helps to build trust and strengthen the support system, making the individual more open to guidance and support.

The Need for a Counsellor and How They Can Help:

Need for a Counselor:

  • Guidance: Counsellors can provide professional guidance through the complex emotional and psychological aspects of the 4th and 5th steps.
  • Support: They offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings.
  • Skills and Tools: Counselors can equip individuals with coping strategies, communication skills, and tools for managing emotions and behaviors.

How CounseLlors Can Help:

  • Facilitating Self-Discovery: Counsellors can help individuals dig deeper into their inventories, ensuring that they identify all relevant issues and patterns.
  • Providing Perspective: They offer an objective perspective, helping individuals see their situation more clearly and understand the broader context of their actions.
  • Emotional Support: Counselors provide emotional support and validation, helping individuals cope with the guilt, shame, or fear that may arise during these steps.
  • Building a Plan: They can help create a structured plan for making amends and developing healthier behaviors, which is essential for long-term recovery.
  • Ensuring Accountability: Regular sessions with a counselor can help individuals stay accountable to their recovery process and continue making progress.

In summary, the 4th and 5th steps are crucial for self-examination and honesty, laying the groundwork for meaningful change. A counselor plays a vital role in guiding, supporting, and providing the tools necessary for individuals to navigate these steps effectively, ultimately aiding in their journey toward recovery.

Role of a Sponsor:

In 12-Step Programmes:

  1. Peer Support: Sponsors are typically individuals who have successfully completed the 12 steps and have maintained their sobriety for a significant period. They offer peer-to-peer support based on their personal experiences.
  2. Guidance Through Steps: Sponsors guide newcomers through the 12 steps, sharing their insights and personal experiences to help others understand and apply the steps in their own recovery journey.
  3. Accountability: Sponsors help hold individuals accountable by providing regular check-ins and encouraging them to stay committed to their recovery process.
  4. Emotional Support: They offer emotional support, understanding, and encouragement, especially during difficult times. They are available to listen and provide empathy from someone who has been through similar experiences.
  5. Availability: Sponsors are often available to their sponsees 24/7, providing immediate support during crises or moments of temptation. This level of availability depends on the individual sponsor but generally allows for more immediate and frequent contact.
  6. Non-Professional: Sponsors are not trained professionals. Their guidance is based on their personal recovery journey and experiences within the 12-step programme.

Role of a Counsellor:

In Professional Therapy:

  1. Professional Training: Counsellors are trained mental health professionals with education and credentials in psychology, counselling, or social work. They use evidence-based therapeutic techniques and interventions.
  2. Therapeutic Interventions: Counsellors provide a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual’s specific needs. These can include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, trauma therapy, and more.
  3. Comprehensive Assessment: Counsellors conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the individual’s mental health status, history, and underlying issues contributing to addiction.
  4. Emotional and Psychological Support: They offer professional support for emotional and psychological issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and other co-occurring disorders.
  5. Confidentiality and Ethics: Counsellors adhere to strict ethical guidelines and maintain confidentiality. They provide a safe and non-judgemental environment for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings.
  6. Long-Term Planning: Counsellors help develop long-term recovery and treatment plans, addressing not only addiction but also overall mental health and well-being.
  7. Holistic Approach: They often take a holistic approach, considering various aspects of an individual’s life, including relationships, work, and physical health, to support comprehensive recovery.
  8. Boundaries: Counsellors have set professional boundaries and typically operate within scheduled appointment times. They are not available 24/7, ensuring a structured and balanced approach to care for both the client and the counsellor.

Key Differences:

  1. Training and Credentials: Sponsors are peers with lived experience in recovery, while counsellors are trained and credentialed professionals.
  2. Approach: Sponsors offer guidance based on personal experience within the 12-step framework. Counsellors use evidence-based therapeutic techniques and comprehensive assessments.
  3. Scope of Support: Sponsors focus on guiding individuals through the 12 steps and providing peer support. Counsellors address a broader range of emotional, psychological, and behavioural issues, offering professional interventions and long-term treatment planning.
  4. Ethical Standards: Counsellors adhere to professional ethical standards and maintain confidentiality, whereas sponsors are not bound by the same professional ethics and may have different boundaries.
  5. Availability: Sponsors can often be contacted at any time, offering immediate support when needed. In contrast, counsellors maintain professional boundaries with set appointment times and are not available 24/7.
  6. Objective: The primary role of a sponsor is to support individuals through the 12-step programme and share their recovery journey. A counsellor’s role is to provide professional therapeutic support to address a wide range of mental health and addiction-related issues.

Both sponsors and counsellors play crucial roles in the recovery process, offering complementary support. Sponsors provide valuable peer guidance and support within the context of the 12-step programme, while counsellors offer professional therapeutic interventions and comprehensive care.

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A sponsor, typically part of a 12-step program, provides guidance, accountability, and support to someone in recovery. Support groups offer a community of peers who share experiences, encouragement, and practical advice for maintaining sobriety.

Seek support from understanding professionals and communities focused on recovery. Educate yourself and others to reduce stigma, and focus on your personal growth and healing journey.

Singapore Meeting Schedules for Various Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Singapore are held regularly throughout the week. You can find detailed and updated schedules on the Singapore AA website or contact them via phone at +65 8112 8089 for specific queries and support.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

Narcotics Anonymous meetings are also available in Singapore, catering to individuals recovering from drug addiction. The meeting schedule is available on the NA Singapore website, and you can contact the helpline at +65 8405 8432 for the latest information and directions.

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous or S.L.A.A 

 Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous. Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous or S.L.A.A. is a program of recovery from sex and/or love adiction. The program is based on the principles of the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, a model pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous. The only requirement for anyone who wishes to join S.L.A.A. is a desire to stop living a pattern of sex and love addiction

To know more visit the SLAA Singapore website.

Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in Singapore are designed to help individuals struggling with gambling addiction. For meeting schedules and additional details, you can visit the GA Singapore website or contact their helpline.

Each of these organisations offers various meeting formats, including in-person and virtual options, to support individuals in their recovery journey. It is always advisable to check the respective websites or contact the helplines to confirm meeting details before attending.

Serenity Prayer for an Addict

The Serenity Prayer used by addicts in various recovery programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), is the same as the general

 Serenity Prayer. Here it is for reference:

God, grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change,
courage to change the things I can,
and wisdom to know the difference.

Why Does Addiction Stress “One Day at a Time”?

The concept of “one day at a time” is fundamental in addiction recovery for several reasons:

1. Manageability:

  • Breaking Down Challenges: Facing a lifetime without the addictive substance or behaviour can be overwhelming. Focusing on staying sober just for today makes the challenge more manageable.
  • Small, Achievable Goals: Daily goals are more achievable and help build a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the recovery process.

2. Reduces Overwhelm:

  • Avoiding Overwhelm: Thinking about never using again can cause anxiety and stress. By focusing on not using for just one day, individuals can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
  • Staying Present: It encourages individuals to stay present and focus on what they can do today to support their recovery.

3. Encourages Consistency:

  • Daily Commitment: It promotes a daily commitment to recovery, reinforcing positive habits and routines that support sobriety.
  • Building a Foundation: Each sober day builds on the previous one, creating a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

4. Psychological Relief:

  • Easing Psychological Pressure: It reduces the psychological pressure of committing to lifelong sobriety all at once.
  • Reducing Anxiety: By dealing with one day at a time, individuals can alleviate anxiety about the future and focus on making the present day as positive as possible.

5. Focus on Action:

  • Immediate Actions: It emphasises taking immediate, actionable steps to maintain sobriety rather than worrying about the distant future.
  • Daily Efforts: Encourages continuous effort and vigilance in the recovery journey.

6. Promotes Mindfulness:

  • Mindful Living: It aligns with the principles of mindfulness, which involves being fully present and engaged in the current moment.
  • Coping with Cravings: Helps in coping with cravings and urges by focusing on getting through just the current day without succumbing.

The philosophy of “one day at a time” helps individuals in recovery stay focused, grounded, and committed to their sobriety by making the process feel less daunting and more achievable. It allows them to take recovery step by step, appreciating each day of progress and reinforcing their journey towards a healthier, addiction-free life.

Yes, many individuals struggling with addiction also face co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Our counselling integrates support for these issues to ensure a holistic recovery process.

Addiction counselling at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. includes family-focused services such as rebuilding trust, navigating codependency, and fostering healthy communication. Learn more in our section on Supporting Families Through Addiction.

We use trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and EFT, to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences that may contribute to their addiction.

Yes, our counselling sessions are conducted in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment to ensure your comfort and privacy.

Absolutely. Behavioural addictions such as gambling, internet gaming, and shopping compulsions are treated using the same evidence-based therapies we use for substance addictions.

Counselling fees are transparently listed on our Payment, Fees, and Terms page, ensuring complete clarity. Sessions typically last 60 minutes, and the duration of your counselling journey depends on your specific needs and goals. Our approach is tailored to meet you where you are and guide you toward meaningful progress at your own pace.

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