About Barbara Wells, Addiction Counsellor

Private Counselling Services

I have been fascinated by addictions for many years. By observing my own behaviour and the behaviour of those around me I am of the belief that addictive behaviours are rampant in our society. By “addictions” I mean "any repeated behaviour, substance related or not, in which a person feels compelled to persist, regardless of its negative impact on their life and the lives of others" (Gabor Mate, 2008).

My fascination with addictions led me to in-depth study of the addictive process and various treatment models to promote recovery and healing (see Professional Help for Long Term Recovery).

In 1987, while completing an undergraduate degree in counselling with a specialization in addictions, I began working with addicted individuals, couples and families. This led to my completion of a master’s degree in counselling and eventually my private counselling practice.

I opened my private addiction counselling practice to provide support, education, counselling, and referrals for those who require professional assistance with addictions or are struggling with the impact of a friend or loved one’s addictive behaviour. This is a private counselling service with no government affiliation. This means that the records of your counselling remain securely stored with the counsellor and not with insurance and employee assistance program providers or your local health authority. This provides an environment where discrete counselling service is possible.

Through counselling, you or your loved one will feel more empowered, gain the capacity to liberate yourself from your addictive behaviour or the behaviour of a loved one that interferes with enjoying a fulfilling and happy life (See Professional Help for Long Term Recovery).

I believe that all behaviour is purposeful and is a person’s best attempt to get their needs met, including negative addictive behaviours. The key is to learn sufficient mastery over one’s own thinking and actions and to make behaviour choices that have a greater likelihood of success.

My addiction work experience includes:

  • Individual therapy for individuals, couples, and families
  • Regional Women’s Addiction Treatment Consultant for the Northern Health Authority
  • Interior Manager of Addiction Services for the Northern Health Authority
  • Group therapy for adults and teens
  • Residential addiction counselling for adolescents
  • Residential addiction counselling for adults
  • Providing Clinical Supervision for Addiction Counsellors

Now in my mid 50’s, I continue to enjoy my counselling work immensely. I feel honoured to assist individuals, couples, and families to be successful in obtaining a quality life of their choosing.