It is often said that after detox, the real work begins.

There are many different recovery programs but they do not all focus on the whole person. At Fresh Start, a thorough assessment determines a personalised recovery plan for each person.  Our approach encompasses all aspects of a person’s life because addiction is not just physical.

Following medical detoxification, the best place to be is in a drug-free supportive environment away from triggers and negative influences. Our counselling and support staff are experienced in helping clients to gain insight into their triggers and the underlying issues which have led to addiction.

Once the substance use has been treated, many people find their mental health improves. Our psychiatric and psychology practitioners are very skilled in treating people with addiction, many of whom have experienced trauma and have complex underlying issues.

Fresh Start Clinical Psychologist Dr Dawson Cooke is deeply committed to his patients.

“I have found that addictions often have a long history, with beginnings in early life experiences that have compounded over time. For the person with an addiction, I believe it takes great courage and determination to engage in a process of making change – especially to turn towards their fears and pain. I am committed to offering a trusting and compassionate approach – to help clients with the understanding, unravelling and healing of pain or trauma that is often behind an addiction” he said.

Counselling is a core part of recovery and ongoing therapy helps to prevent relapse and identify and mitigate triggers. The therapies practiced at Fresh Start are focused not only on addressing mental health issues but managing stress and cravings by developing coping mechanisms that prevent a return to problematic substance use.