Running a 5 week group that will cover but not limited to:

Session 1: Understanding Addiction & Reducing Stigma

• Explore what addiction is (substance use and behavioural).

• Discuss the brain and addiction: reward pathways and dependence.

• Normalize struggles and introduce the cycle of addiction.

• Reducing stigma

• and more

Session 2: Triggers and Cravings

• Identify internal and external triggers.

• Learn about the craving cycle.

• Practice techniques for managing cravings (e.g., urge surfing, distraction tools).

• and more

Session 3: Coping Skills, Boundaries & Emotional Regulation

• Discuss the role of emotions in relapse.

• Teach healthy coping strategies (e.g., grounding, distress tolerance).

• Explore the HALT technique (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired).

• Mindfulness techniques

• and more

Session 4: Relapse Prevention Planning

• Define relapse vs. lapse.

• Identify personal warning signs and high-risk situations.

• Begin developing individual relapse prevention plans.

• and more

Session 5: Harm Reduction & Goal Setting  

• Discuss how addiction impacts relationships.

• Practice communication skills and boundary-setting.

• Explore support systems, and safety plans.

• and more