Addiction & Youth Mental Health

Support that looks beneath behaviour, not just at behaviour

 

Substance use in young people is often a signal rather than the core problem. It can reflect attempts to regulate overwhelming emotions, cope with stress, or manage experiences that feel too big to handle alone.

​

At New Leaf Therapy, concerns related to addiction and youth mental health are supported through individual therapy and parent support sessions, with a focus on safety, trust, and understanding rather than punishment or control.

​

This work recognizes that behaviour makes sense in context, especially when viewed through the lens of nervous system regulation and unmet needs.

​

Who this support is for

 

This work may be helpful for:

​

• Teens and young adults struggling with substance use

• Neurodivergent youth using substances to cope or regulate

• Families experiencing fear, conflict, or uncertainty

• Parents seeking guidance without shame or blame

​

Support can be helpful whether substance use is new, ongoing, or part of a broader mental health picture.

​

​

How substance use often shows up in youth

 

Substance use may appear alongside:

• Anxiety or depression

• Emotional dysregulation

• Impulsivity or risk-taking

• Disconnection from family or school

• Shame, secrecy, or withdrawal

​

Rather than focusing solely on stopping behaviour, therapy explores what the behaviour is doing for the young person and what kind of support might help replace it.

​

​

A compassionate, relational approach

 

Sam’s approach to addiction-related work emphasizes curiosity, not judgment. Therapy creates space to talk honestly about substance use, emotional pain, and the pressures young people face.

​

This work may include:

​

• Exploring emotional regulation and coping strategies

• Identifying underlying stressors or unmet needs

• Strengthening internal resources and support systems

• Reducing shame and increasing self-awareness

• Supporting safer choices and long-term wellbeing

​

Change is more sustainable when it’s rooted in understanding rather than fear.

​

​

Supporting parents through uncertainty

 

Parent support sessions are especially important when substance use is involved.

​

These sessions help parents:

​

• Respond with calm rather than panic

• Set boundaries without escalating conflict

• Communicate concerns clearly and effectively

• Navigate fear, grief, and uncertainty

• Support recovery while maintaining connection

​

Parents don’t need to have all the answers; support can help them find steadier ground.

​

​

What progress can look like

 

 

Progress may include:

​

• Increased openness and honesty

• Improved emotional regulation

• Reduced secrecy and conflict

• Stronger parent–child relationships

• A clearer sense of direction and support

​

Recovery is not linear. Therapy supports both young people and families through that complexity.

​

​

Taking the next step

 

If substance use or related mental health concerns are affecting your family, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

If you’re wondering whether this approach might be supportive, you’re welcome to reach out.

​

​