ADDICTION and the reset approach

what is addiction?

Addiction is often misunderstood as a lack of willpower, but it’s much deeper than that. It is a coping mechanism that emerges when the brain and body seek relief from emotional pain, stress, or trauma.

Addiction isn’t limited to substances like alcohol or drugs. It can also involve behaviours such as gambling, overeating, excessive social media use, or compulsive shopping. While these behaviours may provide temporary relief, they often lead to cycles of guilt, shame, and dependency.

At its core, addiction reflects unmet needs—whether for connection, safety, or purpose.

understanding addiction through a holistic lens

Traditional approaches to addiction often focus on abstinence or behaviour modification. While these methods can be helpful, they sometimes fail to address the underlying causes of addiction—unresolved trauma, emotional dysregulation, and nervous system imbalances.

The RESET Model (Reprocessing Emotions & Cognitions through Somatic and Environment Therapy) views addiction not as a moral failing but as a signal of deeper pain. By addressing both the physical and emotional roots of addiction, we help clients break free from destructive cycles and build lives of fulfilment and purpose.

the reset approach to addiction

Our integrative model empowers clients to heal from addiction by addressing its root causes. Here’s how:

1. Strengthening Self-Compassion

Shame often plays a central role in addiction.The RESET model creates a nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their behaviours with curiosity rather than criticism.

By cultivating self-compassion, clients begin to see themselves not as broken but as resilient individuals capable of change.

2. Addressing Emotional Triggers

Addiction is often driven by emotional triggers such as loneliness, shame, or fear. These triggers can feel all-consuming, leading to impulsive behaviours.

The RESET model helps clients identify and understand their triggers. Through compassionate psychological support and body-based practices, clients learn to navigate these emotions in healthier ways.

3. Regulating the Nervous System

Addiction often stems from a dysregulated nervous system. When the body is stuck in fight-or-flight mode, addictive behaviours can provide a temporary sense of relief.

We use somatic interventions such as cold exposure therapy (ice baths) to help reset the nervous system. By activating the parasympathetic response, clients experience a sense of calm and control, reducing the urgency to turn to addictive behaviours for relief.

4. Releasing Trauma Stored in the Body

Many addictions are rooted in unresolved trauma. This trauma becomes stored in the body, fuelling feelings of discomfort, emptiness, or disconnection.

Through somatic interventions, we help clients release this stored trauma, creating space for healing. Techniques like breathwork, mindful movement, and cold therapy allow clients to process emotions without becoming overwhelmed.

5. Rebuilding Connection and Purpose

Addiction thrives in isolation. Breaking free requires reconnecting with yourself, others, and a sense of purpose.

The RESET approach emphasises fostering meaningful relationships and rediscovering passions. Whether through individual therapy, group workshops, or community-building exercises, we help clients rebuild their support systems and find renewed meaning in life.

A New Path to Freedom

Addiction is not your identity—it’s a response to pain. With the right support, you can break free from its grip and rediscover your true self. The RESET model empowers clients to:

Heal the root causes of addiction.
Develop tools for emotional regulation and resilience.
Rebuild connections and lead purposeful lives.

Your next steps with RESET

Addiction is not your identity—it’s a response to pain. With the right support, you can break free from its grip and rediscover your true self. At The RESET Health Group, we empower clients to:

– Heal the root causes of addiction.

– Develop tools for emotional regulation and resilience.

– Rebuild connections and lead purposeful lives.

Click ‘Meet the team’ below to start your journey.