When addiction affects your life or someone you love

Find support and a realistic path forward There comes a moment for many people struggling with addiction , whether it involves alcohol, medication or gambling , when they begin to see clearly that something is

Find  support and a realistic path forward

There comes a moment for many people struggling with addiction , whether it involves alcohol, medication or gambling , when they begin to see clearly that something is no longer working.

Problems increase, relationships become strained, and the sense of control slowly fades.
At the same time, the idea of change can feel overwhelming. Recovery may seem like a mountain that is too difficult to climb.

Not knowing where to start often leads to staying stuck.

Change is a process, not a single decision

In my work within addiction counseling, I have seen that change does not happen all at once. It unfolds through a series of stages, each with its own challenges, doubts and possibilities.

You may find yourself moving between awareness, hesitation, preparation and action. This is not a failure , it is part of the process.

What matters is not perfection, but support, guidance and a realistic way forward.

A structured and evidence-based approach

My work is grounded in scientifically supported and effective treatment approaches. These include well-established models used internationally in addiction care, such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral strategies and stage-based models of change.

Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution, I tailor the process to the individual. Together, we take into account:

  • the level and type of dependency
  • your personal history and emotional needs
  • your readiness and motivation for change

This allows us to create a path that is both realistic and sustainable.

You don’t have to do this alone

Addiction rarely affects only one person. It often impacts partners, parents and family members who may feel confused, overwhelmed or helpless.

I offer support not only to individuals, but also to those close to them. Together, we can work on understanding what is happening, improving communication and creating healthier boundaries, so that support becomes constructive rather than exhausting.

Taking the first step

You don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin.
The first step is simply being willing to look at your situation honestly.

From there, we can work together to clarify what is happening, what you need and what your next steps could be.

If you feel that this might be the right moment for you, you are welcome to reach out for an initial conversation.

You don’t have to go through this process on your own.

 

About the author

Maria Baliakou, BA, MSc
European Certified Psychotherapist

I work online, in English and Greek, supporting people living abroad — especially those who feel like they’re holding it together on the outside but silently struggling inside.

expat counselling, expats coaching, Maria Baliakou Psychotherapist MSc
Maria Baliakou BA MSc

My Services

I AM HERE TO HELP YOU

Online Counselling & Psychotherapy for Expats

While relocating to a new country can be exciting and full of opportunities, many expats find themselves facing unexpected emotional and psychological challenges — I’m here to help.