Area of support 06

Online Addiction Support in English

Problematic substance use is not a character flaw. Alcohol, medication or other substances often take on a function, such as reducing tension, making emotions bearable or creating a temporary sense of escape.

Private-pay therapy – usually without a long wait.Sessions cost €100 for 45 minutes and are paid by bank transfer in advance.
Request a session

International enquiries are welcome. Before an appointment is agreed, availability is confirmed according to the rules that apply where you will be located during the session.

Possible signs

When substance use takes more control

The line between habit, risky use and dependence is not always easy to see. An honest assessment is possible without shame or premature labels.

Understanding the difficulty

Understanding the function behind the use

Lasting change becomes more likely when we look beyond quantity. We examine when urges arise, which feelings or situations come first and what immediate effect the substance promises.

This creates a personal model of triggers, expectations, habits, social context and consequences. We also discuss honestly which goal is safe, realistic and meaningful for you.

Therapeutic work

Change without moral judgement

We strengthen motivation, develop alternatives for high-risk situations and prepare for cravings and setbacks. A return to use is not treated as final failure; it is examined so that the next decision can be better protected.

Abrupt withdrawal can be dangerous in physical dependence and requires medical care. Online psychological support does not replace medically necessary detoxification, emergency care or inpatient treatment, but it may help prepare and support longer-term change.

Professional responsibilityDipl.-Psych. Michèl Nöthen

More than 35 years of psychological experience and six years living and working in the United States. About my qualifications and approach

Frequently asked questions

What you may want to know.

Do I need to be abstinent before the first session?

Not for an initial conversation. The next steps depend on the substance, pattern of use, physical risks and your goal. Medical support is essential where withdrawal could be dangerous.

What happens if I return to using?

We examine the triggers and decisions involved without humiliation. The aim is to develop a more specific protection plan. Acute risk or severe dependence requires additional local medical support.

Is online work always appropriate for addiction?

No. It can be useful for assessment, motivation and relapse prevention, but it cannot replace emergency treatment, medical detoxification or intensive local care when these are needed.

A first step

Would you like to discuss whether this is right for you?

Request a session
In an acute emergency

This practice does not provide emergency care. If you or somebody else is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services or a crisis service where you are located.