Taking the first step toward recovery can be one of the most courageous decisions you ever make. For many, knowing what to expect helps ease the uncertainty that often comes with starting therapy. Substance abuse counselling in Observatory, Johannesburg provides a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where healing begins through understanding, structure, and guided self-reflection.
At Mental Health Benoni, Laurika Lubbe, a compassionate and experienced counselling psychologist, offers substance abuse counselling designed to support both emotional and behavioural recovery. Her approach helps individuals develop insight, rebuild self-worth, and create lasting strategies for long-term sobriety.
The Purpose of Substance Abuse Counselling
Substance abuse counselling is more than just stopping substance use — it’s about addressing the underlying issues that drive addiction and learning healthy ways to cope. Through substance abuse counselling in Observatory, Johannesburg, clients gain tools for managing triggers, building emotional resilience, and creating sustainable life changes.
At Mental Health Benoni, Laurika Lubbe combines counselling psychology principles with a compassionate approach, helping clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours interact. This insight forms the foundation for recovery and personal transformation.
Key goals of therapy include:
- Identifying the root causes of addiction.
- Understanding the emotional and environmental triggers for use.
- Developing new coping mechanisms and daily routines.
- Building a supportive network for ongoing recovery.
Each session is designed to empower clients with clarity and self-awareness, essential for creating lasting change.
Substance Abuse Counselling in Observatory, Johannesburg: What Happens in a Session
Each person’s experience with substance abuse counselling in Observatory, Johannesburg is unique, but sessions generally follow a supportive, structured approach to promote trust and growth. Laurika Lubbe ensures every client feels safe, respected, and understood throughout their journey.
1. Initial Assessment and Goal Setting
The first few sessions focus on understanding your story — your experiences, challenges, and personal goals for recovery. Laurika takes time to build a strong therapeutic relationship, ensuring you feel heard and validated.
2. Identifying Triggers and Behavioural Patterns
Through guided discussion, you’ll explore the emotional and situational triggers that contribute to substance use. Laurika helps you identify patterns of thought and behaviour that may be keeping you stuck, laying the groundwork for change.
3. Developing Coping Strategies
Once triggers are understood, therapy shifts toward building practical coping tools. These may include mindfulness techniques, stress management skills, and healthy emotional outlets that promote stability and reduce cravings.
4. Emotional Healing and Self-Reflection
Laurika uses evidence-based counselling psychology methods to help clients process emotional pain, guilt, or trauma linked to addiction. This emotional work supports deeper healing and renewed self-worth.
5. Planning for Long-Term Recovery
The final phase involves creating a relapse prevention plan and developing a vision for continued growth. Together, you’ll set clear, achievable goals that help maintain progress and strengthen confidence in your recovery journey.
How Counselling Psychology Supports Addiction Recovery
Unlike short-term interventions, counselling psychology focuses on the whole person — not just the symptoms of addiction. At Mental Health Benoni, Laurika Lubbe helps clients explore how emotions, relationships, and self-perception influence their behaviour.
Through ongoing therapy, clients learn to:
- Recognise and manage negative self-talk.
- Rebuild self-esteem and emotional stability.
- Strengthen communication and relationship skills.
- Cultivate motivation for positive lifestyle changes.
This approach ensures that recovery is not only about abstinence but about rediscovering meaning, balance, and personal empowerment.
The Emotional Experience of Counselling
Beginning substance abuse counselling can stir a range of emotions — relief, fear, hope, and even vulnerability. Laurika Lubbe at Mental Health Benoni understands this and works with clients at a pace that feels comfortable and supportive.
Throughout substance abuse counselling in Observatory, Johannesburg, clients can expect:
- Empathy and respect: A space where your experiences are valued and understood.
- Confidentiality: Complete privacy and trust in every session.
- Collaboration: A therapeutic relationship built on mutual commitment to your growth.
Therapy becomes a partnership — one focused on healing, learning, and building strength for the future.
Long-Term Benefits of Substance Abuse Counselling
Substance abuse counselling offers benefits that extend far beyond recovery itself. With time and consistency, clients often notice:
- Greater emotional awareness and control.
- Improved relationships and self-confidence.
- A stronger sense of purpose and direction.
- Reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms.
- Enhanced resilience to life’s challenges.
Laurika Lubbe’s work at Mental Health Benoni focuses on helping clients not only achieve sobriety but build a life they feel proud of — one filled with stability, self-respect, and ongoing growth.
Why Choose Laurika Lubbe for Substance Abuse Counselling
With extensive experience in counselling psychology, Laurika Lubbe offers professional guidance that balances compassion with structure. Her non-judgmental and empathetic approach creates a safe space for clients to rediscover their strengths and heal at their own pace.
At Mental Health Benoni, her therapy sessions are deeply rooted in understanding, trust, and emotional growth. Laurika’s goal is to help every client create meaningful, sustainable change that supports long-term recovery and wellbeing.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
Recovery starts with a single decision — reaching out for help. With substance abuse counselling in Observatory, Johannesburg, Laurika Lubbe at Mental Health Benoni offers a safe, supportive path toward lasting change and personal renewal.
Take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered future today. Schedule a confidential counselling session and begin your journey toward recovery with guidance you can trust.