Counselling For Alcohol Addiction Cowfold RH13 | Eleos Counselling West Sussex

Statistics and Facts

Over 600,000 people in England are dependent on alcohol, yet only 18% receive treatment each year.

Over 20,000 deaths annually

Alcohol contributes to over 20,000 deaths annually in the UK, making it one of the leading preventable causes of harm.

 

One in five adults

One in five adults regularly drinks at levels that increase their long-term health risks.

Alcohol-related hospital admissions

Alcohol-related hospital admissions have risen to over one million per year, placing huge pressure on the NHS.

Liver disease deaths

Liver disease deaths have increased by more than 20% in the last five years.

Highest binge drinking rates in Europe.

Young adults in the UK experience some of the highest binge drinking rates in Europe.

Violent crime

Alcohol is linked to over 39% of all violent crime, including domestic abuse and antisocial behaviour.

Trauma

People with trauma histories are up to four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence.

Numb emotional pain

In line with Gabor Maté’s work, many individuals drink not to “feel good” but to numb emotional pain rooted in early stress, neglect, or disconnection.

Counselling for Alcohol Addiction Cowfold RH13

Living with alcohol difficulties can quietly take over daily life. Many people seeking counselling for alcohol addiction in Cowfold RH13 describe feeling stuck between wanting relief and fearing what change might involve. Therapy offers a confidential and supportive space to explore this struggle at your own pace, without judgement or pressure to be anything other than honest.

Alcohol often begins as a coping tool. For some, it eases anxiety or stress. For others, it softens emotional pain, loneliness, or long-held trauma. Over time, however, drinking can shift from choice to necessity, bringing feelings of guilt, shame, or loss of control. Alcohol addiction counselling near Cowfold helps untangle these patterns with care, focusing on understanding rather than blame.

Support is available locally for adults who feel alcohol has begun to affect their wellbeing, relationships, or sense of self. Whether drinking feels unmanageable or simply no longer aligned with who you want to be, therapy provides a place to reflect, stabilise, and begin meaningful change.

Black and white collage symbolising hope, self-respect, and recovery through alcohol addiction counselling in Cowfold RH13, West Sussex.<br />

Understanding Alcohol Addiction and Problematic Drinking

Alcohol dependency rarely exists on its own. In many cases, it develops alongside anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, or emotional overwhelm. Because of this, counselling for alcohol addiction in Cowfold RH13 looks beyond surface behaviours and explores what alcohol has come to represent in your life.

Some people drink to switch off racing thoughts. Others use alcohol to cope with pressure, expectations, or emotional pain that feels too heavy to carry alone. Through alcohol misuse counselling, these underlying drivers can be gently explored, helping you recognise patterns that may have developed over many years.

Importantly, therapy does not force labels. You may identify with alcohol addiction, alcohol dependence, or problematic drinking, while others prefer to speak about habits or coping strategies. Whatever language feels right is respected, ensuring the work remains collaborative and person-centred.

As insight grows, many clients begin to feel less controlled by urges and more connected to their emotional needs. Change then becomes something that feels possible, rather than overwhelming or imposed.


Black and white image with mountains and reflective text about recovery, representing alcohol addiction counselling and therapeutic support in Cowfold RH13, West Sussex.

How Alcohol Counselling Can Support Change

Alcohol addiction counselling near Cowfold provides structured, one-to-one support tailored to your circumstances. Sessions are paced carefully, allowing space to reflect, stabilise, and build trust.

During counselling, you may explore:

  • Emotional triggers linked to drinking

  • Stress, anxiety, or trauma connected to alcohol use

  • Relationship difficulties affected by alcohol

  • Shame, guilt, or harsh self-judgement

  • Health concerns and fear of relapse

  • Boundaries, routines, and early warning signs

Rather than focusing solely on stopping alcohol use, therapy supports deeper emotional understanding. As a result, many people develop healthier ways of coping with distress, reducing reliance on alcohol over time.

Alcohol dependency counselling also supports individuals who feel uncertain about their goals. Whether you are considering abstinence, moderation, or simply understanding your relationship with alcohol, therapy remains flexible and responsive to your needs.

A Compassion-Focused, Trauma-Informed Approach

At Eleos Counselling, alcohol addiction counselling in Cowfold RH13 is grounded in compassion-focused and trauma-informed psychotherapy. This approach recognises that alcohol often develops as a protective response to emotional pain, not as a personal failure.

Rather than challenging drinking behaviour with criticism, therapy works to reduce shame and build emotional safety. Many clients discover that self-compassion plays a vital role in sustainable recovery, helping to calm internal conflict and reduce relapse cycles.

Trauma-informed alcohol counselling also ensures sessions remain emotionally regulated and safe. You remain in control of what is explored and when. This allows therapy to progress at a pace that feels manageable, particularly for those with past trauma or long-term emotional stress.

Through this gentle yet structured approach, change often feels kinder, more grounded, and more realistic over the long term.

Professional Standards and Experience

Alcohol addiction counselling near Cowfold is provided by a qualified psychotherapist with extensive experience supporting adults affected by alcohol dependency and substance misuse. Eleos Counselling works to high professional and ethical standards, offering confidential and respectful care.

Therapists are registered members of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and bring specialist experience in addiction-related work. Sessions are available both in-person and online, allowing flexibility around work, family, or health needs.

Many clients value the discreet and non-judgemental nature of therapy, particularly when alcohol difficulties feel hard to discuss with others.

When to Consider Alcohol Counselling

You do not need to be at crisis point to seek support. Alcohol counselling in Cowfold RH13 may be helpful if you notice:

  • Drinking increasing in frequency or intensity

  • Using alcohol to cope with emotions or stress

  • Feeling anxious, low, or irritable when not drinking

  • Relationship strain linked to alcohol use

  • Worries about physical or mental health

  • A sense of losing control over drinking

Early support can prevent difficulties from becoming more entrenched. Reaching out is often a sign of awareness and self-care, not failure.

Taking the First Step

Starting counselling for alcohol addiction can feel daunting, especially if alcohol has been part of your coping for a long time. However, you do not need certainty or a fixed plan to begin. Therapy starts with conversation, curiosity, and support.

If you are considering alcohol addiction counselling in Cowfold RH13, you are welcome to make contact for an initial discussion. This offers an opportunity to ask questions, understand how therapy works, and decide whether the approach feels right for you.

You do not have to face this alone.

Related Alcohol Addiction Counselling Support in West Sussex

If you are exploring counselling for alcohol addiction in Cowfold, West Sussex, it may be helpful to look at how support is offered in nearby areas. Some people find reassurance in comparing locations before deciding which setting feels most practical, discreet, or supportive for regular attendance.

You may wish to read more about alcohol addiction counselling across West Sussex, particularly if you are considering different locations or want a broader overview of how therapy is offered across the county.

You may also wish to read more about counselling for alcohol addiction in Horsham RH12 / RH13, especially where work pressure, commuting, or everyday responsibilities are contributing to patterns of drinking.

Others explore counselling for alcohol addiction in Billingshurst RH14, particularly where alcohol use has been present for a longer period or where attempts to cut down have led to repeated cycles of stopping and starting.

If you are based closer to the coast, you may also find counselling for alcohol addiction in Littlehampton BN17 helpful, especially where drinking is affecting emotional wellbeing, relationships, or family life.

Each location page reflects the same professional standards, confidentiality, and compassionate approach, allowing you to choose the setting that best fits your circumstances.

Crisis and Immediate Support

If you are at immediate risk or experiencing severe distress:

  • Call 999 in an emergency

  • Contact your GP or local NHS urgent mental health service

  • Call Samaritans on 116 123 (UK, free, 24/7)

Alcohol addiction counselling is not a substitute for emergency care but can form an important part of longer-term recovery and emotional stability.

Related Support Options in West Sussex

If you’re exploring recovery from alcohol use, you may also find these pages helpful. Many people look into nearby support, such as alcohol addiction counselling in Petworth, alcohol support in Billingshurst, or options for online addiction therapy across West Sussex. If stress, trauma, or difficult life events contribute to your drinking, you may also want to read more about substance misuse counselling or trauma and PTSD therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions – Alcohol Addiction Counselling at Eleos Counselling West Sussex

What can I expect in my first counselling session?

Your first session is a calm, steady conversation about what has been happening for you. You won’t be pushed to share anything before you’re ready. We move at your pace, helping you feel safe enough to explore your relationship with alcohol without judgement or pressure.

Do I need to have stopped drinking before coming to therapy?

No. Many clients come to us while still drinking. Therapy supports you in understanding the reasons behind your alcohol use and helps you build the emotional stability needed for change. You do not need to be sober to begin the process.

Is alcohol addiction counselling confidential?

Yes. Everything you share remains confidential within BACP ethical guidelines. The only exceptions involve risk of serious harm. You will always be informed if a safeguarding step is needed.

How does therapy help with cravings or binge drinking?

Therapy helps you understand the emotional triggers behind cravings or binge episodes. As your awareness grows, you gain stronger internal tools to pause, reflect, and choose differently. Over time, cravings often reduce as emotional steadiness increases.

Can counselling help if my drinking is connected to trauma or stress?

Yes. Much of our work draws on trauma-informed principles. Many people, as Gabor Maté suggests, use alcohol to ease emotional pain when safer coping strategies were never taught or available. Therapy helps you heal these deeper wounds so alcohol becomes less necessary.

What if I feel ashamed or embarrassed about my drinking?

Shame around alcohol use is extremely common. At Eleos Counselling, you are not judged. You are met with compassion and understanding. Many clients discover that speaking honestly reduces shame and makes change feel more possible.

Is online therapy suitable for men?

Yes. Online male therapy offers the same professionalism and confidentiality as in-person sessions. It’s ideal for men with busy schedules, mobility issues, or those living in rural areas of West Sussex. Sessions take place via secure video link, allowing you to speak privately from home. Many clients find that online therapy makes it easier to open up and stay consistent, especially when balancing work and family commitments.

How long will I need counselling for?

There is no fixed timeline. Some people come for short-term support, while others benefit from longer-term work, especially when trauma or life stressors are involved. We review your progress together so counselling always reflects your needs.

Will my therapist tell me to stop drinking completely?

No. We don’t impose targets or demands. Instead, we work with you to understand what you want to change and what feels possible. Our role is to support your goals, not dictate them.

Can I attend counselling if I’m unsure whether I have an alcohol problem?

Yes. Many clients come to explore their concerns long before they feel “certain” something is wrong. If your drinking is affecting your wellbeing, relationships, mood, or confidence, therapy can offer clarity and support at any stage.

Trusted UK Alcohol Support Resources

These organisations offer reliable guidance, emotional support, and practical help for anyone struggling with alcohol misuse, alcohol dependence, or alcohol-related mental and physical health issues.

1. Alcohol Change UK – Information & Harm Reduction

Alcohol Change UK provides research-based information, practical advice, and tools to help people cut down or stop drinking. The charity also links to local alcohol services and national support networks.

2. Drinkaware – Education & Self-Help Tools

Drinkaware offers clear guidance on alcohol misuse, health risks, and dependency. Resources include unit calculators, self-assessment tools, and tips for reducing drinking safely.

3. NHS Alcohol Support – Treatment & Medical Guidance

NHS Alcohol Support provides free services including brief interventions, detox pathways, and mental health treatment. GPs can also refer individuals to local alcohol teams.

4. Change Grow Live (CGL) – National Alcohol Services

Change Grow Live delivers alcohol and drug support programmes across the UK. They offer counselling, health assessments, peer support, and harm-reduction advice.

5. Turning Point – Alcohol & Mental Health Support

Turning Point provides structured support for alcohol dependence, including one-to-one work, group support, and crisis services. Many programmes address co-occurring mental and physical health issues.

6. SMART Recovery UK – Coping Skills & Group Support

SMART Recovery UK offers science-based strategies for managing cravings and building motivation. Free online and in-person meetings run nationwide.

7. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – Peer Support & Community

Alcoholics Anonymous UK hosts free, confidential 12-step meetings across the country. Sessions are available in person, online, and by phone.

8. Al-Anon Family Groups – Support for Loved Ones

Al-Anon Family Groups support relatives, partners, and friends affected by someone else’s drinking. Meetings take place online and in local communities.

9. British Liver Trust – Alcohol-Related Health Information

British Liver Trust provides guidance, helplines, and resources for anyone affected by alcohol-related liver conditions, including fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

Begin Your Journey Toward Balance

To learn more or to book your first session, please contact us today.
We’re here to help you move beyond survival and toward a life defined by calm, clarity, and resilience.

Eleos Counselling, West Sussex
Phone (landline): 01403 900079
Mobile: 07854 602050
Email: info@eleoscounselling.com
Address: Eleos Counselling, Little East Street, Billingshurst, RH14 9NP
Website: www.eleoscounselling.co.uk

Tony Larkin FDA,BA (Hons) MBACP (Acc)

I’m Tony Larkin, a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor based in West Sussex. As the founder of Eleos Counselling, I provide a safe, supportive space for people facing challenges such as anxiety, addiction, perfectionism, trauma, and relationship difficulties. With years of experience, I combine professional knowledge with compassion, helping clients find new perspectives, rediscover confidence, and build healthier connections. My approach is rooted in empathy and the belief that lasting change comes through understanding, self-compassion, and support

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Eleos Counselling Ltd    The Workshop, Little East Street, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9NP

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4 February 2026 Eleos Counselling Ltd All Rights Reserved.