This website may not work correctly in Internet Explorer. We recommend switching to a more secure modern web browser such as Microsoft Edge which is already installed on your computer.
Specialised guidance and therapy for individuals struggling with alcohol dependency, aiming to reduce consumption, address underlying challenges, and promote healthier lifestyles.
For: Adults
Available in: North East Metro Perth Metro Wheatbelt
At Holyoake, we provide resources and support for individuals seeking help with alcohol-related issues. 44% of our consumers seek support for challenges relating to alcohol.
We provide Alcohol counselling and support services through one satellite and three primary locations across Perth and throughout Western Australia’s Wheatbelt:
Our holistic, evidence-based approach to alcohol and other drug services – the Holyoake Approach – encompasses mental health support and is the foundation of the wide-ranging and constantly evolving treatment services, support, recovery and prevention programs we deliver across WA. This includes:
If you or someone you care about is affected by alcohol or related mental health issues, Holyoake can help you work through your challenges in a safe, caring and non-judgemental environment.
We offer a choice of free alcohol counselling options: face-to-face, phone, and video counselling as part of our integrated service to support you in reducing your dependency on alcohol. This includes total abstinence from alcohol and withdrawal programs if this is the path that you choose. It is your choice, and Holyoake will support you.
Following a comprehensive assessment, you may choose to engage in a rehabilitation program, withdrawal management or other treatment services. One of our experienced counsellors will meet you to understand you and your circumstances and recommend a program that is best suited to your needs.
Integrated support teams, including a Clinical Case Manager, Peer Support Worker and GP, can also provide medical support for individuals impacted by alcohol use to provide a holistic support solution.
We can also refer you to specialist services, including specialised detoxification units, residential rehabilitation, pharmacotherapy and community support services to ensure you receive the expert care you need.
There are many treatment options available for alcohol dependence and other drug use, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Understanding the different options can be an important first step in finding the right path to recovery.
At Holyoake, we offer a variety of treatment options tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you prefer one-on-one counselling, group programs, or a combination of both, we are here to support you on your journey to quit drinking and achieve long-term recovery.
Individual alcohol counselling is available to the person affected by alcohol or their family members and caregivers who may be impacted. Our programs include counselling for individuals, couples and families to support everyone to achieve their goals and reduce the effects of alcohol on their life and relationships. Individual counselling sessions are usually between 50 and 60 minutes long, and appointments are available on weekdays and some evenings.
An alternative to one-to-one alcohol counselling is Group Programs. Group programs are designed to equip you with the tools and skills necessary for long-term success in your recovery journey. By focusing on relapse prevention, stress management, and improving overall wellbeing, the therapeutic group setting empowers you to make lasting changes and thrive beyond the program. You will be part of a supportive community where you can connect, gain inspiration, and build strong bonds with others who are on the same path.
Group programs offer individuals and family members an opportunity to address their own alcohol use and explore their challenges and the impact of alcohol on their relationships through a series of topics, including The Process of Dependency, Change, Relapse, Letting Go, Self-Responsibility, and Family Dynamics. Programs are typically delivered over 12 sessions and uniquely combine cognitive behaviour therapy and group therapy.
Our therapeutic groups are led by highly trained and experienced facilitators and specialists in alcohol treatment who create a safe and non-judgmental environment, fostering open dialogue and encouraging personal growth. In an open group format, the programs run on a continuous rotating basis (i.e. sessions 1-12 repeated without interruption), so you can join the group at any time and complete the full 12-session program. The programs are instructive and supportive, with all participants in the group programs encouraged and assisted to take responsibility for their situation.
Each session is crafted to cater for your unique needs with separate groups for men and women. Our programs offer a combination of educational components, group discussions, skill-building exercises, and practical strategies to help you develop healthier coping mechanisms and form a positive lifestyle.
Alcohol dependence is a condition where an individual feels compelled to drink alcohol to feel good or avoid feeling bad. This dependence can have serious consequences for one’s health and overall wellbeing. Understanding alcohol dependence is crucial in recognising the signs and symptoms and seeking help when needed.
Alcohol dependence can stem from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Stress, anxiety, and depression can also trigger or exacerbate this condition. Recognising the signs of alcohol dependence, such as increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and neglect of responsibilities, can help individuals seek the necessary support and intervention. If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to reach out for help and explore the treatment options.
Recognising the need for help with alcohol and other drug use can be challenging. However, answering “yes” to any of the following questions may indicate a need for assistance:
If you have answered “yes” to any of these questions, it may be time to seek help and support. Recognising the need for assistance is a crucial first step towards recovery. At Holyoake, we offer a range of support services to help you address your alcohol use and improve your mental health and overall wellbeing.
Recovery from alcohol dependence and other drug use is an ongoing process that can include setbacks. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals can achieve long-term recovery. Relapse prevention is crucial and involves identifying triggers, developing coping skills, and seeking support from friends, family, and support groups.
It’s also important to find healthy ways to manage stress and emotions, such as exercise, meditation, and therapy. At Holyoake, we provide comprehensive support services to help you navigate the challenges of recovery and build a healthier, happier life.
If you are experiencing substance use disorders or dual diagnosis, your experience of dependence can often be regarded as a ‘personal choice’ or ‘moral failure’.
The stigma associated with alcohol use can lead to people denying their symptoms or feeling as if they cannot seek treatment. Being afraid to seek treatment or unwilling to tell healthcare practitioners about the use of alcohol can mean that people aren’t getting the care and support they need.
At Holyoake, we do not use terms such as alcoholic, alcoholism, addict (or similar), rehab, or detox. Nor do we have a ‘war on alcohol’ or look to ‘fight’ or ‘combat’ any alcohol or mental wellbeing concerns. We believe it to be the responsibility of all health professionals to reduce stigma and ensure that a person is not defined by alcohol or other substance use. Holyoake is a safe place and non-judgemental service that puts the person at the centre of care.
Explore our services to learn more about our alcohol-specific individual and group programs.
As a leading provider of evidence-based therapeutic programs, adopting a holistic approach to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of alcohol dependence, we provide comprehensive support throughout your or your loved one’s recovery journey.
The following questions are commonly asked prior to or at a Holyoake support session:
Everyone and their situation is unique, and due to this, the best therapy will differ from person to person. At Holyoake, we offer a range of free alcohol support services to suit a wide variety of personal circumstances. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you, a family member, or a friend with alcohol problems.
Heavy drinking, alcohol dependence, and general alcohol problems in Western Australia can impact young people and adults in a range of ways.
At Holyoake, we have free treatment options, including alcohol support groups and alcohol counselling available for those wanting to stop drinking or set goals to improve their overall wellbeing related to alcohol and other drugs.
We offer a holistic approach to caring for individuals impacted by the harms of alcohol. This includes medical assessments and support, pharmacotherapy, case management, counselling, mentoring, advocacy and group therapy programs via Integrated Support Teams.
A care plan is developed with you including suggested referrals to specialised pharmacotherapy services and withdrawal programs in partnership with hospitals and health professionals.
When you engage with Holyoake, you will be asked several questions. This is often referred to as ‘screening’ for alcohol challenges. This is an important step in your journey to help you avoid, reduce or modify drug use, rather than reacting to a more worrying problem that requires acute treatment, and often an emergency response.
Screening and early intervention assessments are delivered through an Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C) or an Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) to determine the level of alcohol consumption or illicit drug use.
This takes the form of the ‘5As – Ask, Assess, Advise, Assist and Arrange’ – an evidence-based framework for behavioural change in alcohol dependency. Linking alcohol use to other medical complaints is often the first step and a useful way to open the discussion on alcohol challenges.
If you have given permission to be contacted by telephone, you will be called the day before your initial appointment. For all on-going appointments, with your permission you will receive a SMS 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time.
We understand that there may be occasions when you are unable to attend your scheduled appointment. To help us with re-scheduling your appointment and scheduling appointments with other clients, we ask that you telephone us with as much notice as possible, preferably letting us know 48 hours in advance.
Your counsellor will work with you to support your attendance. If you miss two consecutive appointments without giving prior notice, you will be discharged from your program to facilitate access for others seeking our service. If your circumstances change and you wish to re-engage, please contact us to discuss your options.
You are welcome to refer yourself or be referred back to Holyoake. For some programs, there is a requirement to wait a period of time (usually 3 months) before you can go through the program again, however there are circumstances where this may not apply, so please contact your local Holyoake office to enquire if you are eligible to access services sooner.
Group programs run weekly for 12 weeks and are designed for participants to complete once. Should you and your group facilitator agree that additional group sessions would be beneficial, they will discuss this with you near the end of the program.
We don’t set limits, but most programs are structured to deliver short to medium-term support and counselling over 6 – 10 sessions, depending on the program of support. Should you and your counsellor agree that additional counselling sessions would be beneficial, your counsellor will discuss this with you prior to completing the program.
Holyoake programs are provided at no cost to you.
You can contact your local service to give feedback, fill in a feedback form at your local service or email your feedback to feedback@holyoake.org.au.