What is this condition?
Behavioral addictions involve compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviors despite negative consequences. Unlike substance addictions, behavioral addictions do not involve drugs or alcohol but instead center around activities that activate the brain’s reward system—leading to loss of control and difficulty stopping.
Common types of behavioral addictions include:
- Gambling addiction
- Gaming addiction
- Internet and social media addiction
- Shopping or spending addiction
- Sex and pornography addiction
- Exercise or work addiction
Research in neuroscience shows that these behaviors trigger dopamine release in the brain, reinforcing compulsive patterns similar to substance use disorders. Left untreated, behavioral addictions can interfere with relationships, mental health, work, finances, and overall well-being.
Who struggles with this condition?
Behavioral addictions can affect teens, adults, and older adults, across all genders and backgrounds. They often emerge as coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, trauma, or depression but can quickly spiral into destructive cycles.
Warning signs may include:
- Spending increasing time on the behavior
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop
- Neglecting responsibilities or relationships
- Mood swings, irritability, or restlessness when unable to engage in the behavior
- Continuing despite harmful consequences
Many individuals don’t recognize behavioral addictions right away, since the behaviors themselves (such as working, shopping, or gaming) are often socially acceptable.
How we treat behavioral addictions at Daisy Clinic Therapy & Counseling in Bellevue and across WA state
At Daisy Clinic Therapy & Counseling, we offer a comprehensive, neuroscience-informed approach to treating behavioral addictions. Our therapists combine evidence-based psychotherapy, behavioral analysis, and personalized treatment plans to help clients regain control.
Our therapeutic methods include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and build healthier coping skills.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Strengthens emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness to reduce urges.
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) & Behavior Therapy: Especially effective for identifying reinforcement cycles and replacing harmful habits with adaptive ones.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy: Addressing underlying trauma or emotional pain that fuels compulsive behavior.
- Neuroscience-Based Interventions: Psychoeducation on how the brain’s reward system works, empowering clients to “rewire” patterns of behavior.
- Family & Couples Support: Helping loved ones understand the condition and establish healthier boundaries.
Why choose our approach and our clinic?
At Daisy Clinic Therapy & Counseling, we know that behavioral addictions are complex—but recovery is possible with the right support.
- Specialized care: Our therapists integrate psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science for real, lasting change.
- Flexible access: In-person therapy at our Bellevue clinic or safe, HIPAA-compliant online counseling across Washington State.
- Financial accessibility: We accept insurance, private pay, and offer sliding scale payment options for those with financial limitations.
- Whole-person focus: We don’t just treat the addiction; we address the root causes—stress, trauma, depression, or anxiety—so healing is sustainable.
- Compassionate expertise: We provide a safe, judgment-free environment where clients can openly explore challenges and rebuild their lives.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with behavioral addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Daisy Clinic Therapy & Counseling, we specialize in helping individuals break free from destructive cycles and create healthier, more fulfilling lives.
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how personalized therapy can help you take back control—one step at a time.