Addiction & recovery
“Not all addictions are rooted in abuse or trauma, but… they can all be traced to painful experience. A hurt is at the center of all addictive behaviors.”
Addiction is often misunderstood as a matter of willpower or moral weakness, but research and clinical experience tells a very different story. At Blue Sky Therapy, our belief is addiction is a response to unmet needs, emotional pain, and unresolved trauma. Substances, behaviors, and patterns may provide temporary relief, but they are ultimately signals from the nervous system that something inside is struggling to be heard and healed.
Using EMDR, we understand addiction as rooted in unprocessed memories and experiences. These experiences can leave the nervous system in a state of hypervigilance, shame, or emotional dysregulation, making it difficult to respond to life with balance and ease. Through EMDR, we help reprocess these experiences, so they can be integrated in a way that reduces triggers, cravings, and compulsive behaviors.
In addition, trauma-informed therapy and parts work allow us to engage with the different aspects of the self that may be carrying anxiety, fear, or protective strategies. By learning to communicate with these parts and fostering compassion for their intentions, clients can develop internal support systems that replace reliance on addictive behaviors. Somatic therapy further supports recovery by helping regulate the nervous system, release stored tension, and restore a sense of safety in the body.
Recovery is a journey of understanding, healing, and reclaiming agency. Addiction is not a failure — it is a signal, a message from the body and mind asking to be seen and cared for. With compassionate, trauma-informed support, you can move from survival and coping to resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connection.