Counselling For Alcohol Addiction Henfield BN5 | 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 Henfield BN5
Living with alcohol difficulties can feel quietly overwhelming. Many people seeking counselling for alcohol addiction in Henfield BN5 describe feeling trapped between wanting things to change and worrying about what life might look like without alcohol. Therapy offers a confidential, non-judgemental space to explore this safely, at a pace that feels manageable.
Alcohol often begins as a way of coping. For some, it helps reduce anxiety or stress. For others, it numbs emotional pain, loneliness, or unresolved experiences. Over time, however, drinking can shift from something helpful into something controlling. Alcohol addiction counselling near Henfield focuses on understanding this transition with compassion rather than blame.
Support is available for adults who feel alcohol is affecting their wellbeing, relationships, or sense of self. Whether drinking has become habitual, emotionally driven, or increasingly difficult to manage, counselling provides space to pause, reflect, and begin restoring balance.
Understanding Alcohol Addiction and Problematic Drinking
Alcohol dependency rarely develops in isolation. In many cases, it sits alongside anxiety, low mood, trauma, or long-term emotional pressure. Because of this, counselling for alcohol addiction in Henfield BN5 looks beyond drinking behaviour alone and explores what alcohol has come to represent in your life.
Some people drink to quiet intrusive thoughts. Others rely on alcohol to cope with responsibility, expectations, or emotional overwhelm. Through alcohol misuse counselling, these underlying drivers can be explored gently, helping you notice patterns that may have developed over time.
Importantly, therapy does not require labels. You may relate to terms such as alcohol addiction, alcohol dependence, or problem drinking, while others prefer to talk about coping strategies or habits. Whatever language feels right is respected, keeping the work collaborative and person-centred.
As insight grows, many clients begin to feel less ruled by urges and more connected to their emotional needs. From there, change often feels possible rather than frightening.
How Alcohol Counselling Can Help
Alcohol addiction counselling near Henfield provides structured, one-to-one support shaped around your circumstances. Sessions are paced carefully, allowing trust to build and emotional safety to develop.
During counselling, you may explore:
-
Emotional triggers that increase drinking
-
Stress, anxiety, or trauma linked to alcohol use
-
Relationship strain connected to drinking patterns
-
Shame, guilt, or harsh self-judgement
-
Health concerns and fear of relapse
-
Boundaries, routines, and early warning signs
Rather than focusing only on stopping alcohol use, therapy supports deeper emotional understanding. As alternative ways of coping begin to develop, reliance on alcohol often reduces naturally.
Alcohol dependency counselling also supports people who feel uncertain about their goals. Whether you are considering abstinence, moderation, or simply want clarity about your relationship with alcohol, therapy remains flexible and responsive.
A Compassion-Focused and Trauma-Informed Approach
At Eleos Counselling, alcohol addiction counselling in Henfield BN5 is rooted in compassion-focused and trauma-informed psychotherapy. This approach recognises that alcohol often becomes a protective response to emotional pain rather than a sign of weakness.
Instead of reinforcing self-criticism, therapy works to reduce shame and build self-understanding. Many clients find that developing compassion towards themselves plays a crucial role in sustainable change, particularly when past attempts to stop drinking have felt harsh or unsuccessful.
Trauma-informed alcohol counselling also prioritises emotional safety. You remain in control of what is explored and when, ensuring therapy progresses at a pace that feels steady and contained. This is especially important for those with a history of trauma or long-standing emotional distress.
Through this supportive approach, change tends to feel kinder, more grounded, and more realistic over time.
Professional Standards and Experience
Alcohol addiction counselling near Henfield is provided by a qualified psychotherapist with extensive experience supporting adults affected by alcohol dependency and substance misuse. Eleos Counselling works in line with 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 therapy. Sessions are available both in-person and online, offering flexibility around work, family, or health needs.
Many clients value the discreet nature of counselling, 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 Henfield BN5 may be helpful if you notice:
-
Drinking becoming more frequent or intense
-
Using alcohol to manage emotions or stress
-
Feeling anxious, low, or irritable when not drinking
-
Tension in relationships linked to alcohol use
-
Worries about physical or mental health
-
A growing sense of loss of control
Early support can prevent difficulties from becoming more entrenched. Reaching out is often a sign of awareness and self-respect.
Related Alcohol Addiction Counselling Support in West Sussex
If you are exploring counselling for alcohol addiction in Henfield, 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 Pulborough RH20, especially where alcohol use has been present for some time or where stress and isolation are making change feel harder to manage alone.
Others explore counselling for alcohol addiction in Steyning BN44, particularly where drinking is affecting confidence, emotional balance, or day-to-day stability.
If you are based slightly further inland, you may also find counselling for alcohol addiction in Billingshurst RH14 helpful, especially where routine and consistency are important parts of reducing reliance on alcohol.
Each location page reflects the same professional standards, confidentiality, and compassionate approach, allowing you to choose the setting that best fits your circumstances.
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 Henfield BN5, you are welcome to get in touch for an initial discussion. This allows space to ask questions, understand how therapy works, and decide whether the approach feels right for you.
You do not have to face this alone.
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.
Contact Eleos Counselling
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
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
Stay In Touch
Office
Eleos Counselling Ltd The Workshop, Little East Street, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9NP
Phone Number
(01403)900097