Addictive behaviors refer to the repeated engagement in an activity or the regular consumption of a substance, preventing the body from returning to its state of balance. This induced imbalance is particularly evident in the disproportionate relationship between the effort required and the reward obtained, creating a complex narrative where subjective experiences (loneliness, shame, guilt, etc.) intertwine with the individual's defense mechanisms (denial, rationalization, etc.). The intervention of an addiction psychologist, psychiatrist, or addiction specialist doctor enables a deep exploration of these dynamics.
Addiction
Treating addictive disorders: an integrative, empathetic, and recovery-oriented approach.
Addiction psychologist
Exploring addiction
Substance use
disorders
Behavioral
Addictions
Understanding addiction
Addiction is a chronic and complex pathological state characterized by compulsive behavior in seeking pleasure through substance use or repeated activities despite harmful consequences on physical, mental, social, or professional health. This condition, often linked to neurological reinforcement processes, profoundly alters the individual's overall functioning, potentially disrupting interpersonal relationships, impairing decision-making abilities, and diminishing the capacity to engage in activities that require delayed gratification.
How does the brain react?
Addiction leads to neurobiological changes that alter how the brain perceives and responds to external stimuli. These changes primarily affect:
- The reward circuitry, inducing lasting changes in its functioning.
- The sensitivity of neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and reward (dopamine, serotonin, endorphins), reducing the effectiveness of reward signaling in the brain;
- Motivation and decision-making circuits, which promote a preference for addictive behaviors over other activities.
- Brain plasticity, disrupting the brain's ability to adapt and restructure in response to new experiences; and
- The formation of strong associative memories, reinforcing environmental or emotional triggers linked to addictive behavior.
Recognizing addiction
Addiction is characterized by an inability to control, reduce, or stop consumption or activity, et par la poursuite de la conduite addictive malgré la conscience des conséquences négatives associées. La tolérance (besoin d’augmenter l’intensité ou la fréquence), le craving (désir irrépressible de consommer ou de s’engager dans une activité), la négligence d’activités importantes ou encore les symptômes de sevrage (physiologiques ou émotionnels) sont également observés. Un diagnostic précis, réalisé par un psychologue addiction, un addictologue ou un psychiatre, est essentiel pour comprendre la complexité de ces comportements et proposer un traitement adapté.
Integrated approach to addiction
Addiction can impact various aspects of an individual's life, including physical and mental health, interpersonal relationships, professional functioning, and overall well-being. Treating addiction often requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates medical interventions (psychiatrist, addiction specialist), psychological support (addiction psychologist), and social assistance, along with support from family and loved ones. This comprehensive and personalized approach helps individuals overcome their difficulties and regain balance in their lives.
FAQ
Addiction psychologist: when to consult?
It is recommended to consult an addiction psychologist as soon as addictive behaviors begin to negatively impact your daily life, whether related to the consumption of substances or the repetition of a behavior. Consultations can help to understand the psychological mechanisms underlying addiction and to establish effective withdrawal strategies. For more information and to schedule an initial appointment, please visit the Contact & Pricing webpage.
Addiction psychologist: how can he help in treating dependencies?
A psychologist specializing in addiction treatment typically practices psychotherapy and uses various tools, such as motivational interviewing and approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy, to address dependencies. They may work independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team, for example, in a CSAPA (Centre de Soins d’Accompagnement et de Prévention en Addictologie), alongside addiction specialists, nurses, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals. In any case, the psychologist should, whenever possible, be integrated into a multidisciplinary support system to provide patients with comprehensive care, thereby promoting recovery.
Addiction psychologist or addiction doctor?
A psychologist specializing in addictions focuses on the psychological and behavioral aspects of addictive behaviors, offering psychotherapy and consultations to help modify the behaviors and thoughts associated with addiction. An addiction specialist (addictologist) is a doctor specialized in addiction medicine. They can prescribe treatments and manage the medical and physiological aspects of dependencies. Together, they often form a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive treatment, particularly in the context of smoking cessation, alcohol withdrawal, or other drug-related detoxification.
Where can I find and Addiction Psychologist?
You can consult an addiction psychologist in various professional settings tailored to your needs. In addition to private consultations (search via keyword on a search engine or Doctolib), addiction, alcohol, and tobacco services are often available in hospital settings (university hospitals, day hospitals, etc.). Medical-social structures (CSAPA, specialized associations, etc.) also offer valuable support for those seeking assistance. Whether you are looking for a private consultation, hospital care, or support within the medical-social network, you will find specialized psychologists to accompany you in your care and recovery process.
Addiction psychologist: what to expect from a consultation?
During a consultation, the addiction psychologist assesses your personal situation, addictive behaviors, and the related psychological factors. They may use different therapeutic approaches, such as Integrative therapy , to help you develop strategies for managing cravings and establishing withdrawal goals. If necessary, they can refer you to other members of a multidisciplinary team for additional care, such as group therapy or hospitalization in case of an emergency.