Addiction Neuroscience: Rewiring the Brain for Freedom

Katrina’s journey into psychotherapy has been shaped by a diverse professional background. She began her career as an analyst in an investment bank in London, where she gained a deep understanding of what it means to feel stuck, disconnected, and unfulfilled. Listening to the signals from both her mind and body, she transitioned toward a more meaningful path—first in education as a school teacher and later into holistic healing practices.

Before becoming a psychotherapist, Katrina trained extensively as a yoga, meditation, and breathwork teacher, developing a profound appreciation for the mind-body connection. Now, as a psychotherapist and counsellor, she integrates her background in education, movement, and mindfulness to support clients on their healing journeys. She takes a holistic, client-centred approach, recognising each person as a whole and interconnected being—mind, body, soul, and spirit.

Overall, my experience at Highlands has been great and I feel really good now. The main change I’ve seen is probably my self-confidence. For me, it was about the fact that I wasn’t going to just “get off” drinking alcohol. I was going to get help as to why I wanted alcohol in the first place and to tap into my childhood memories to find the root causes of my drinking. The program taught me the things that I didn’t normally think about in life, and it’s taught me that I’m more capable than I thought I was.

Highlands Recovery is so different to what people think of a rehab. I liked the fact that the program was tailored to me and what stood out to me most was the group therapy aspect. The second I walked into group therapy I felt calmer; I was relieved. It wasn’t daunting or scary or anything like that. It just took the pressure off straight away. I could see myself in others and vice versa and I could relate to the other guests. Overall, this led to a feeling of belonging and like we were a family. I felt like there’s nothing wrong with me, this is normal and there’s lots of people in a similar situation to me, which I hadn’t realised before.

Overall, my experience at Highlands was great; it was sort of a bittersweet feeling because I know I could’ve stayed there for longer, but I also knew I didn’t need to. I am now in the Aftercare Program, and it is excellent. It creates a safe community for recovery and it’s a must do to ensure long lasting results.

My time at Highlands Recovery has been an absolutely life-changing, amazing experience. The environment at Highlands is so warm and caring, it doesn’t feel clinical or like a hospital. The team have all been so supportive, thoughtful and caring and they’ve all helped me in their own ways. I know that this isn’t the end of my recovery journey, but I also know that I will never go back to the person I was when I first arrived. It’s truly changed my life.

Resh and Cam have put together a world-class facility here. The program is very well structured for maximum recuperation. I could not have made such a leap alone and I am grateful for the care and kindness I received. The facility itself is wonderful; I enjoyed the time spent reflecting while I walked around the lake and the grounds, and the massages and the steam room were also a highlight. The support team are just the best – I had an excellent rapport with all the staff, they were very professional.

A lot of things have changed for me during my time here; I feel completely re-energised, I have a new zest for life. I came in here thinking nothing was going to help me and that I wasn’t ever going to get better but slowly things have turned around. Since I was 16, I’ve been to neuropsychologists, therapists, doctors, psychologists, and I couldn’t connect with any of them, it was like they were just there to take my money and that was it. But here, it feels like they’re invested in you getting better.

It really feels like Resh, Georgia and Peter all deeply care about your struggles; they tailor your program to exactly what you need. It didn’t matter who I was seeing, I felt like I connected with them, and they truly understood what I was going through. They were honest with our group about their own struggles, and they’re all now highly successful in their field; this really gives me hope that I can get through my own struggles and succeed too.

 The sense of community here really surprised me. It’s like a big family; you see each other at your worst and can relate to each other’s experiences. And not just with the other clients but the staff too; they’re all amazing.

Right now, I feel really comfortable with the path that I’m on. The best thing about the therapy side of the program is that you’re set up to be able to help yourself and are given the right tools, which is the most important thing; I’ve now got the tools to do it myself and I know this is just the start of my journey. But really, whatever I say just doesn’t do this place justice, it’s just amazing.

Being here has changed my whole world. I’m a very different person to when I arrived and I’m very grateful for the support that I’ve had at Highlands Recovery. I really thrived in the community side of the program and the way it’s been. Being in an environment where you’re supported and feel safe is what I loved most about the program.

 You’ve truly put the right people in the right roles here. All the staff I’ve had interactions with have been incredibly supportive; I’ve enjoyed every interaction with Elliot, Kate is wonderful, Paul was also great, and Annie has also been supportive. I’ve learnt so much from the clinical team; Peter’s great, Emma was great in group therapy; Katrina was fantastic, I had one session with Georgia, and she was great too. And Resh is amazing, he’s the smartest man I’ve ever met, he genuinely cares for me.

It’s really hard to put into words what this program has done for me. I’ve learnt so much and I couldn’t have done this in a better environment or a better space. It’s a euphoric feeling; finding yourself, finding your purpose. I know the temptation will always be there and I’ll have to deal with this for the rest of my life but right now I know I’ll be ok because this was the right community for me, and I’ve now got the right tools to manage it. Now, I’m only thinking about myself – I feel amazing, thank you!

Linda Jane Davies brings over 20 years of experience as an Executive Assistant in large corporate environments, where she has been instrumental in supporting executive teams to achieve their goals and meet deliverables efficiently. With a robust background in governance, Linda has successfully implemented policies and processes that ensure operational excellence.

Her passion for continuous learning has led her to explore various educational avenues, with a special focus on neuro health, particularly in areas of mindset, subconscious beliefs, and emotional regulation. This knowledge enables her to foster a caring and supportive environment, ensuring superior service and optimal client outcomes in all her interactions.

Currently, Linda is an integral part of the Operations Team at Highlands Recovery, where her expertise and commitment to excellence continue to make a positive impact.

Shelley weaves a tapestry of skills at Highlands Recovery, where every thread is spun from a deep care for others. Her focus lies in crafting a nurturing atmosphere that aligns with holistic principles, ensuring each guest feels valued and supported.

She oversees the day-to-day operations to ensure a seamless guest experience, coordinates with various team members, and implements strategies to improve guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Shelley has always excelled in people-centric roles. Drawn to Highlands Recovery by the scenic charm of the location and the program’s exceptional support, she values the comprehensive approach to treatment and takes pleasure in being part of a team dedicated to guiding individuals on their path to recovery.

Outside of work, Shelley finds joy in cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family.

Paul is an integral part of the Highlands Recovery Clinical team as an overnight carer and support person for our clients, with a wealth of experience in the rehab and recovery space. For the past two years, Paul has been the Residential Coordinator for Triple Care Farm in Robertson, run by Mission Australia, running a small team of youth workers, detox staff and RNs as they assist young people detoxing from AOD (alcohol or drugs). Prior to this he spent three years as a case manager with Arbias (Alcohol related brain injury assessment services), where he managed clients with complex mental health and addictions as they left custodial sentences and transitioned into civilian life. He also spent three years at Disability Services Australia, supporting clients with Mental Health concerns at a community justice facility while they were on parole. He also spent one year as a 000-emergency call taker and dispatch for the Victorian Police Force.

His particular interest and passion in this space is driven by his mission to assist and encourage people that may be struggling with trauma and addiction reach their full potential and support them on their journey towards making positive life changes.  

In his spare time, Paul is a keen guitarist, an avid reader and likes to go hiking and winter swimming, in conjunction with being a practitioner of the Wim Hoff Method. He also impressively has a Black Belt in Wing Chun Kung fu and started Brazilian Ju Jitsu two years ago.

Integrating EMDR therapy into your recovery journey in New South Wales can be a transformative experience. The world-class EMDR psychologists in Sydney provide confidential, private care tailored to each client’s unique needs. At Highlands Recovery, we pride ourselves on offering excellence in treatment, ensuring that clients receive the highest standard of care throughout their therapeutic journey.

Admission to our programme is subject to a clinical assessment, allowing us to determine the most appropriate treatment options for each individual. While EMDR therapy is highly effective for many, it may not suit all conditions. Our experienced psychologists work closely with clients to develop personalised treatment plans that align with their specific challenges and goals.

As clients embark on their healing journey, they can expect a supportive environment that fosters growth and resilience. EMDR therapy not only addresses the symptoms of trauma but also empowers clients to reclaim their lives and build a brighter future. With the guidance of skilled professionals, individuals can confidently navigate their recovery, knowing they are in capable hands.

Highlands Recovery offers a comprehensive solution for those seeking EMDR therapy in Sydney, providing world-class, confidential care tailored to individual needs. Our experienced EMDR psychologists are dedicated to guiding clients through the eight phases of therapy, ensuring a supportive environment for healing. With a focus on addressing trauma and its effects on mental health, we empower individuals to reclaim their lives and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Our commitment to excellence in treatment and a thorough clinical assessment for admission ensures that clients receive the most effective care possible. At Highlands Recovery, we are here to support your journey towards recovery and emotional well-being.

EMDR is considered a paramount treatment option for trauma-related conditions. According to psychological research, “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a comprehensive and integrative approach to psychotherapy that works with the neurophysiology of memory to reprocess disturbing life experiences that continue to have a negative impact on self and psyche” (Laliotis & Shapiro, 2022). This indicates that EMDR helps resolve unprocessed memories.

Likewise, studies have demonstrated that EMDR significantly reduces symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For instance, a meta-analysis published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research found that EMDR is effective in treating PTSD, with many clients experiencing substantial improvement after just a few sessions (Tijsseling, 2024). Hence, there is ample research data available that stands as the embodiment of EMDR’s efficacy.

In addition, when trauma occurs, the brain’s information-processing system becomes disrupted, which triggers distressing emotions. EMDR therapy helps to re-establish normal processing by using bilateral stimulation. Considering this, the underlying mechanism of EMDR involves the brain’s natural ability to process information. This technique allows clients to access and reprocess traumatic memories. The reprocessing of traumatic memories is crucial to resolving emotional dysregulation and trauma.

Moreover, EMDR is effective in treating addiction, as many individuals struggling with substance use disorders have underlying trauma. According to research, “EMDR trials also found that trauma-focused interventions for patients with SUD (Substance use disorders) and comorbid PTSD could be applied securely without compromising substance use outcomes” (Schäfer et al., 2017). It means Individuals who suffer from childhood trauma and substance use disorder can equally benefit from this therapy. Likewise, research indicates that clients who undergo EMDR therapy have reported decreased cravings and improved emotional regulation, which are crucial for successful recovery (McGovern et al., 2015). Hence, understanding the underlying reason reduces the likelihood of relapse.

Choosing the right psychologist is always crucial for anyone seeking EMDR therapy. The effectiveness of EMDR therapy undoubtedly depends on the therapeutic relationship and the therapist’s expertise. Clients should look for practitioners specifically trained in EMDR and have a solid understanding of trauma-informed care.

In Sydney, multiple qualified EMDR psychologists offer unique approaches and specializations. The client needs to do his own research, check the reviews and credentials of the psychologist and make an informed choice. In this regard, some psychologists also offer initial consultations. By booking initial consultations and a session, clients can assess their comfort level and see if the psychologist fulfills their specific needs. As one initial consultation cannot decide the efficacy of the therapy, the client can still have some basic idea about comfort. Additionally, the client needs to make sure that the psychologist understands the complexities of trauma and addiction so there are maximum chances of healing through this therapeutic experience.

Several misconceptions about EMDR therapy confuse individuals from seeking this effective treatment. One prevalent myth is that EMDR is only beneficial for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As a matter of fact, EMDR therapy is used to address a wide range of psychological issues that range from anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Like many other psychological treatments, EMDR works with reprocessing of unresolved memories. This reprocessing reduces emotional dysregulation and allows individuals to deal with emotions without distress. Hence, it is completely a myth that EMDR erases traumatic memories.

Additionally, as misperceived, EMDR is not similar to hypnosis in any way. During EMDR sessions, clients remain fully aware and engaged and consciously re-evaluate their experiences.

Furthermore, there are other misconceptions, such as that EMDR is a rapid, ‘one-quick’ solution to trauma. In contrast, some individuals may experience relief after just a few sessions. Yet, EMDR is not an instant cure at all. It requires time and patience. It may not be suitable for everyone. For instance, people who are involved in substance abuse can also negatively impact the outcomes of EMDR. It is necessary to clarify such myths in order to enhance the awareness of people who think about EMDR therapy in Sydney, as everyone should make informed decisions for their personal well-being.

Before drawing a connection between trauma and addiction, it is crucial to understand how trauma alters brain healthy functioning. Trauma affects how individuals process emotional experiences and can disrupt normal cognitive functioning, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. EMDR treats mental health conditions that happen because of memories from traumatic events in your past. EMDR Therapy treatment in Sydney addresses these disruptions by offering the reprocessing of traumatic memories.

This therapy highlights that trauma can cause memories to become fragmented and improperly stored in the brain. This can lead to persistent emotional distress and maladaptive behaviours. EMDR helps clients access these traumatic memories in a safe environment that further helps them process and integrate their experiences more adaptively. Bilateral stimulation refers to the process of alternately stimulating the left and right sides of the brain. According to scientific data, bilateral stimulation activates brain processing and has calming effects. The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR is guided by eye movements, which activate the brain’s natural healing processes and promote the reorganisation of these memories.

Research supports the efficacy of EMDR in treating trauma-related conditions. A study published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research indicates that EMDR can significantly reduce PTSD symptoms and improve overall mental health outcomes. By addressing the underlying trauma, EMDR therapy alleviates immediate symptoms and helps in long-term resilience and recovery.

Addiction more likely coexists with unresolved trauma. Research indicates that individuals who suffer from childhood traumatic experiences in any form are more vulnerable to substance misuse in adulthood. For instance, such individuals seek temporary relief from the pain of past experiences through substance misuse. EMDR therapy is a vital component in the recovery process. By addressing the root causes of addiction, EMDR therapy helps individuals understand the emotional triggers that lead to substance use. In Sydney, EMDR facilitates a deeper exploration of the traumatic experiences that contribute to addictive behaviours. This therapy aids in desensitising the emotional responses linked to these memories by promoting healthier coping mechanisms.

Scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of EMDR in treating various forms of addiction, including alcohol and various drug dependencies. By processing traumatic memories, individuals can break the cycle of addiction by working on the underlying cause and developing a more resilient mindset that can help in lasting recovery.

The efficacy of EMDR therapy lies in its unique mechanism of action. Trauma has a deep-rooted impact on brain functioning, and hence, due to the long-lasting impacts of trauma, information processing of the brain becomes overwhelmed, which further leads to emotional dysregulation and memory issues. This disruption often leads to the re-experiencing of traumatic events in the form of flashbacks or intrusive thoughts.

EMDR therapy utilises bilateral stimulation to reprocess the stressing memories. It is typically done through guided eye movements. Research indicates that this stimulation facilitates the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing individuals to reframe their traumatic experiences. Studies have shown that EMDR can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD. In this regard, some patients experience relief after just a few sessions. The therapy encourages the brain to access and reprocess traumatic memories, enabling patients to integrate these experiences without the associated emotional pain.

The final phase focuses on reinforcing the skills acquired in the previous stages and preparing clients for future challenges. It involves applying the lessons learned during trauma narration and processing to everyday life situations.

Clients work on enhancing their coping strategies and maintaining their recovery when faced with trauma triggers. This phase also includes family meetings to ensure continued support from loved ones, which can significantly boost the recovery process.

Research indicates that incorporating these elements into the treatment enhances the effectiveness of TF-CBT, fostering improved family relationships and better emotional health among participants (Cohen et al., 2017).

During this phase, clients recount the details of their traumatic experiences in a safe and controlled environment. This process, known as trauma narration, allows them to confront and explore the memories and emotions associated with the trauma.

By gradually disclosing these memories, clients begin to address the mental hold these experiences have over them. The therapist guides them through this process, ensuring that they remain comfortable and supported.

This phase is crucial for helping clients alter their negative trauma narrative and integrate their experiences into their broader life story. It aids in reshaping their understanding and emotional response to the trauma.

This initial phase focuses on establishing safety and emotional self-regulation. Patients become aware of ways to manage anxiety and distress, natural effects of trauma. Psychoeducation helps them understand their reactions and normalizes their feelings, making it clear that such responses are acceptable.

In this stage, patients are introduced to tools and strategies like relaxation, mindfulness, and grounding techniques to help them regain control over their emotions. These methods support their ability to cope with trauma-related stress.

Research indicates that effective stabilisation significantly enhances the overall efficacy of TF-CBT. By providing a solid foundation, it prepares patients for the more intensive work in the subsequent phases of therapy.

Occupational reintegration focuses on helping individuals return to meaningful work, fostering a sense of purpose and accomplishment. By building skills and confidence, they can reengage with their careers or explore new opportunities. This process is vital for restoring self-esteem and financial independence.

Relational reintegration involves rebuilding healthy connections with family, friends, and loved ones. Strengthening these relationships provides crucial emotional support and helps individuals feel more connected and understood. Positive relationships are key to a stable and fulfilling recovery.

Social and personal reintegration are about reengaging with community activities and rediscovering personal interests. Participating in social activities fosters a sense of belonging, while personal reintegration encourages self-discovery and growth.

Exposure-based therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are designed to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories. By gradually confronting these memories in a controlled setting, individuals can process and reframe the trauma. This approach helps diminish the emotional intensity linked to past events.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) focuses on challenging and modifying unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma. Through guided sessions, individuals learn to shift their thinking patterns, leading to a healthier perspective on the traumatic event.

Both EMDR and CPT are powerful tools in trauma recovery, allowing individuals to regain control over their memories and emotions. These therapies work by targeting the root of the trauma, facilitating long-term healing.

Maladaptive behavior can manifest as avoidance, aggression, or other harmful actions, disrupting daily life. These behaviors often stem from distorted thinking patterns, where negative beliefs and cognitive distortions take hold. Addressing these patterns is key to fostering healthier coping strategies.

Somatic symptoms, such as chronic pain, headaches, or fatigue, are physical manifestations of underlying emotional distress. These symptoms can be debilitating, further complicating the recovery process. Effective treatment must integrate both physical and psychological care.

Environmental factors, including specific triggers or stressors, can exacerbate symptoms or lead to relapse. Identifying and managing these triggers is essential for long-term recovery. A holistic approach ensures that the individual is supported in all aspects of their environment.

Motivational Interviewing is a key therapeutic approach we use to empower clients in their journey toward recovery. This evidence-based technique focuses on enhancing an individual’s motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. Through collaborative and non-judgmental conversations, our highly experienced psychotherapists help clients identify their own reasons for change, fostering a sense of autonomy and commitment to their recovery goals. Motivational Interviewing is particularly effective in addressing substance use disorders and other behavioural challenges, providing a strong foundation for lasting transformation and personal growth.

Motivational interviewing is a therapy approach in which clinicians use a patient-centred stance paired with eliciting techniques to help patients explore and resolve their ambivalence about changing behaviours that are not healthy or optimal. It has a collaborative, autonomy-supporting, and evocative style (known as “motivational interviewing spirit”) in which clinicians seek to understand patients’ perspectives on substance use, while guiding them toward considering changing one or more behaviours. Sometimes this may involve building awareness of a discrepancy between the patient’s current and hoped-for self. The clinician avoids confrontation and supports patients’ optimism about the possibility and value of change.

People with unhealthy substance use often have mixed feelings and thoughts about their smoking, drug, and alcohol use. While they may be aware of negative consequences associated with substance use, they also get pleasure from it (e.g., intoxication, disinhibition, and socialisation). They often remain conflicted or ambivalent about changing their behaviour until their perception of the risks and benefits of substance use shifts. Understanding and resolving this ambivalence is central in motivational interviewing.

Key processes in motivational interviewing include engagement, focusing, evoking, and planning. Clinicians using motivational interviewing build rapport and engage the patient with a warm, non-judgmental attitude. They elicit the patient’s ideas and feelings about a range of current behaviours, how these fit with the patient’s hopes and values, and whether the patient can imagine better options than the current behaviours. During this process, they focus on changes that the patient wants to make and match the agenda to the patient’s priorities. The clinician elicits the patient’s own reasons and rationale for possible changes, referred to as “change talk.” Simultaneously, the clinician manages “sustain talk,” or arguments for staying the same, by attending to it only as much as needed before pivoting back to strengthening change talk. A key skill for the clinician is to pay more attention to change talk than sustain talk by evoking, reflecting, and strengthening it. Once people are resolved to change, they can often do it on their own. Thus, while not essential, motivational interviewing can include processes of planning for and activating changes. The motivational interviewing clinician may continue to assist the person as they make changes, especially as motivational interviewing is focused more on discussing the “whether” and “why” to change than the “how.”

Two active components have been proposed as leading to the efficacy of motivational interviewing.

Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, Somatic Experiencing® is a trauma resolution method that is grounded in an understanding of how mammals respond to and recover from stressful and life-threatening situations. Originally created as an approach to healing trauma in humans, the science underlying the method has broader applicability in understanding equines and other mammals as well.

Somatic Experiencing® provides a gentle way of working with sensations, arousal and activation in the autonomic nervous system, and thwarted survival responses (procedural or implicit body memory) by building capacity to bear witness to what is happening inside in small, incremental amounts (titration). This process isn’t just about sensations, but also allows us to work with the over- and under-coupled emotions, thoughts, beliefs, images, sensory details, behaviours (including impulses, movements, and actions), and dynamics that are associated with different life experiences.

Building slowly, Somatic Experiencing® supports the ability to experience progressively larger thresholds of activation and embodiment to both respect and grow the window of tolerance. As we grow our resiliency, inner resources, and capacity to be with our internal experience and challenging external stimuli, the need for defensive or management strategies decreases (such as shame, dissociation, fragmentation/switching ego states, avoidance, resistance, intellectualisation, pleasing, complying, addictions, disordered eating, stereotypies, overriding through willpower, projecting and blaming, and so on). This is very different from tolerating, putting up with, or muscling through. Our capacity to be more present to the fullness and goodness that life has to offer – relationships, pleasure, play, creativity, calm, excitement, joy, authenticity – can also increase as well.

One of the goals of trauma recovery is that of somatic renegotiation – having a different outcome to a familiar situation or experiencing oneself differently in a familiar situation. One example is completing in the present what did not have a chance to complete in the past, such as safely releasing and processing what is stored in the body, restoring the natural ability of the system to regulate, and experiencing a felt sense of aliveness or triumph (“I can!”). Experiences of triumph offer a counter-resource to past experiences of defeat and “I can’t”, which help shift our internal experience of ourselves. As Deb Dana says, “story follows state” – when our state changes, so too does the story we tell ourselves about ourselves and others (such as our loved ones, pets, horses, and so on). Although horses don’t tell stories in the same way we do, their felt sense of themselves also changes depending on whether they are attuned and responded to, whether they feel triumph or chronic defeat, and so on.

Allowing time for the nervous system to pendulate through and integrate each small shift in this process is important, so that a different felt sense of self in the moment can emerge. We work at the edges of the window of tolerance, so that there is something to work with but not so much that the nervous system goes too far beyond threshold. There are other forms of renegotiation as well, such as renegotiating relationship dynamics, or internal dynamics between parts of ourselves, and so on.

In this lifelong phase of recovery, clients are expected to be entirely self-reliant. While support groups, such as 12-step programs, sponsors, supportive family, and occasional therapy can still play a role, the focus is on the client’s ability to self-regulate their autonomic nervous system (ANS).

The goal is for clients to manage and minimize triggers independently, leading to a life that is free, or mostly free, from the debilitating effects of trauma. Despite the presence of ongoing triggers, clients should have the skills to handle them effectively.

We recognize that recovery from trauma and its associated behavioral issues is a continuous journey. Our approach supports clients in maintaining their progress and adapting to their new, healthier way of life.

The initial phase of recovery begins by addressing a highly agitated autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is easily triggered and can lead to excessive anxiety, flashbacks, and cravings for substances or behaviors that provide temporary relief.

To effectively calm the ANS, we employ a carefully crafted mix of biological, psychological, and social tools. These include practices like yoga and personal training to promote physical well-being, somatic massage to release tension, and a healthy diet.

Additionally, sleep hygiene is emphasized to ensure restful, restorative sleep, which is crucial for healing. A supportive social environment surrounds clients, providing the encouragement and connection necessary to manage triggers.

Once a client achieves stability in their autonomic nervous system (ANS), the critical trauma re-processing phase begins. This stage focuses on breaking the link between triggers and excessive ANS reactions, helping clients manage their responses with greater control.

Various therapeutic modalities are used to meet individual needs during this phase. Techniques like EMDR, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure Therapy help clients process traumatic memories and alter harmful behaviors.

The therapy approach is customized by our clinical team to ensure effectiveness and match each client’s specific situation. This personalized method aims to reduce the power of triggers and support clients in their ongoing recovery journey.

The initial phase of recovery begins by addressing a highly agitated autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is easily triggered and can lead to excessive anxiety, flashbacks, and cravings for substances or behaviors that provide temporary relief.

To effectively calm the ANS, we employ a carefully crafted mix of biological, psychological, and social tools. These include practices like yoga and personal training to promote physical well-being, somatic massage to release tension, and a healthy diet that supports overall body function.

Additionally, sleep hygiene is emphasized to ensure restful, restorative sleep, which is crucial for healing. A supportive social environment surrounds clients, providing the encouragement and connection necessary to manage triggers.

I’m Bernard, I’m 67 years old and I am an alcoholic. 

I’ve been a chartered accountant since I was 18 and I started my own accounting firm at 27 and ran that business, very successfully, together with my business partners up until four years ago when I sold out of the business. 

I have always drunk a lot, but it never seemed to be out of control. However, After I sold the business, I faced a lot of changes and challenges in my personal life; my partner and I moved from the city to a small country farm to start our new retired life. 

Moving from a situation where I knew what I was doing and was in control of my day-to-day life to a small, isolated farm where I had absolutely no idea what I was doing was a challenge. I really lost confidence in myself; going from a fast-paced, structured environment to a non-structured farm life resulted in the start of my cycle of heavy binge drinking. It got to a point where my partner, my family and my friends all knew about my drinking problem and were gravely concerned for my welfare. In that period, it didn’t occur to me that “Hey, this isn’t normal”.

My daughter found Highlands Recovery’s website and with the encouragement of my partner, we came down to meet with their Clinical Director Resh Joseph and Cam Francis their CEO, we had a conversation and afterwards I felt like “Wow, I can think again!”. I thought I could get my life back into control again, on my own, however that didn’t work, so I signed up to their Recovery Program.

After the first few days of settling in at Highlands I started to get into the flow of the schedule and routine. The first week or so was addressing the problem for me, which was alcohol. The next three weeks were less focused on alcohol and more focused on me; my body, my mind, my gut the “conscious” and “unconscious” and I was really fascinated by the science of it all. 

Understanding the science of my addiction enabled me to understand the tools and the methodologies that Resh uses to counteract the “craving”. As Resh would explain, the “craving” can be alcohol, drugs or as simple as wanting to change your clothes five times per day. Resh helped me to understand what has driven my addiction for the past four years; what the warning signs were, and he’s given me the tools to counteract or control the warning signs before my cravings start. 

Understanding the relationship between the “conscious” and the “unconscious”, the warning signs and utilising the tools and techniques that have been given to me by Resh and the other psychologists I worked with, has allowed me to counteract and manage the cravings and their warning signs. For example, there was a moment during my stay when something triggered me and made my anxiety rise. I immediately remembered the tools that I’d been taught, which in this case was to go and do an activity by myself, which helped placate my anxiety and cravings. My anxiety went from being (on a scale of one to ten), a nine and by using my tools, I could bring it back down to a six-seven and reduce my cravings.

A fantastic part of the Program here at Highlands is the activities you’re encouraged to participate in like Yoga, Personal Training, Massage, Sauna; they all really helped me to relax and regulate my system. 

So, you’ve been to other rehabs, what in your view, made this experience different and better?
Over the years I’ve seen several psychologists, but nothing has been like what I’ve experienced at Highlands Recovery. Resh has created this Program that he wholeheartedly believes in, which he sticks to, and that program has worked for me.

I’ve been to another rehab under negative reinforcement, basically to appease my daughter and I lasted three days. There was basically no psychology involved in the program. They were counsellors, not psychologists and there is a big difference. I went to a second rehab that believed in the learnings of Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12-Step Program. There’s no psychology, no filtering of who came in, what they did. It was supposed to be four weeks, and I left after two weeks because I just didn’t get it. Their strategy was basically lock you in a room for four weeks and go to a few meetings and “you’ll be fine”. It didn’t work for me.

So, the difference here was, in the first couple of days, it takes time to just get settled. Accept why you’re here, chat with fellow guests, meet the therapists and participate. It’s hard in the first couple of days in the group meetings but it’s fulfilling and it’s all learning. The biggest thing was learning about myself and how my addiction works. That’s the difference between Highlands and those other places; they did nothing like that.

They might help you detox and become sober, but they don’t help you learn how to regulate your own anxieties and nervous system and control your cravings. Resh’s program is based on finding the source of your cravings and then giving you the tools to manage that source. 

If I could give advice to anyone who my situation might be resonating with, is that it’s important to participate in the group therapy; the input and comments you get not only from the therapists like Resh, Georgia and Peter but also (most importantly) from your fellow guests who are there doing the program with you.  The feedback from fellow guests here is just as valuable; a comment someone else might make can really resonate with you. All the group activities here both therapy and exercise-based gives you a social environment and a community to connect with. There have been guests here who I’ve connected with, and I hope they think I’ve helped them because they’ve certainly helped and supported me.

Anete’s professional journey has been deeply rooted in the clinic field, particularly within self awareness and embracing, and raising self-worth. Her approach is always thoughtful and tailored, understanding the unique needs of each individual and how to engage them meaningfully. This experience translates beautifully into her work with Highlands Recovery. Believing that a strong sense of community and belonging is crucial to healing and recovery. Through strategic communication and compassionate engagement, helps create an environment where guests feel seen, supported, and motivated to embark on their journey to wellness.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Anete’s life has been enriched by a deep commitment to nonprofit work, which began at a young age, thanks to the influence of her family. These experiences instilled a strong sense of simple purpose—to ease up the life of others.

She strives for building a nurturing community where Highland Recovery guests stories are heard, their needs are met, and their progress is celebrated. The expertise in creating supportive, engaging environments—both online and offline—means that she is committed to ensuring that every aspect of their stay contributes to their healing journey. Whether it’s through personalized communication, community-driven initiatives, or simply being a compassionate listener, her goal is to help each guest find strength, solace, and a renewed sense of purpose.

In the preparation/determination stage, people have made a commitment to make a change. Their motivation for changing is reflected by statements such as: “I’ve got to do something about this — this is serious. Something has to change. What can I do?”

This is sort of a final research phase. They gather information (sometimes by reading articles like this) about what they will need to do to change their behaviour. Or they will check out websites, organisations and resources that are available to help them in their attempt. Too often, people skip this stage: they try to move directly from contemplation into action and fall flat on their faces because they haven’t adequately researched or accepted what it is going to take to make this major lifestyle change.

At this stage, the role of family and friends is to provide access to resources, like our website and to help to remove barriers. Often there are practical reasons (barriers) for why someone is avoiding or delaying the commencement of their recovery. These might include finding time off work, how to tell the family, managing kids or pets, transport and logistics, finances etc. Helping them in a constructive way to resolve each issue will assist them greatly in making the first step to getting help.

There are various tried and tested ways to explain an absence to family and friends. Pet minders can be found. Family members can look after children. If financial assistance is required, various solutions are available. For example, our team can help with accessing medical loans or early release of Superannuation funds.

When the time is right, act fast. People will often seek help when they feel helpless and desperate. This is the time for family and friends to mobilise and get them into rehab as soon as is possible. Note that for some substance abuse users, a medically supervised detox maybe required prior to heading into Rehab. We can organise this for you if required.

If your loved one is “preparative” then please call our team and we can help them take the next steps.

Emma brings with her a wealth of experience as therapist in the trauma and mental health space. She has significant experience working with children, young people and adults across NSW as well as in remote First Nations communities. She cares deeply about the needs and wants of her clients with a particular passion for supporting clients with complex and diverse needs, resulting from trauma. Her understanding of complex mental health issues includes developmental and attachment-related trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, loss, addiction and anxiety. Her skill lies in working creatively with each individual to listen, understand and support them, using a range of evidence-based strategies that best suit a client’s needs, such as DBT, sand play, art, play, trauma-informed brain-based interventions and motivational interviewing. 

Being naturally drawn to people from all walks of life, Emma is passionate about helping her clients overcome their personal struggles and free them from trauma.  She has supported people in a personal and professional capacity through recovery and believe that everyone is owed compassion and respect in their journey through life. 

Outside of her work, Emma is a practicing artist and loves creativity in any form. She loves travelling, spending time with her daughters and husband and following her favourite AFL team the Sydney Swans.

Tiffany is an esteemed Psychologist, who employs a person-centred approach to her work, integrating a range of evidence-based therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed brain-based interventions, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. She is particularly passionate about assisting those who have experienced trauma to process their past and live their best lives. Her key strengths as a therapist include exceptional interpersonal communication skills, creativity, and a person-centred therapeutic approach. Her interest in helping clients achieve their full potential involves identifying and addressing the root causes of their trauma, enabling a deeper understanding of what drives their behaviours and facilitating true healing. 

Tiffany is deeply committed to working with both neurotypical and neurodiverse individuals from various cultural backgrounds, supporting them to reach their full potential by understanding and leveraging their strengths, addressing challenges, and fostering a collective understanding that all behaviour is a form of communication. 

Outside of her professional life, Tiffany enjoys lifting weights, going for bushwalks, and exploring the beautiful national parks in the Blue Mountains. She spends most of her time with her husband and three children, manages her son’s soccer team, and is on a quest to find the perfect coffee. 

With a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Elliot has honed his culinary skills in various kitchens, working across the Southern Highlands in cafés, restaurants, and at numerous events, including weddings and birthdays. A proud Southern Highlander, Elliot is actively involved in the community, participating in sports such as tennis and cricket, and volunteering as a junior cricket coach.

Their interest in rehabilitation and recovery is driven by a genuine desire to care for others. At Highlands Recovery, Elliot sees a profound opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. His cheerful and engaging personality, coupled with a sincere interest in others, makes him well-suited to the Highlands team.

Alexis is a seasoned psychotherapist, specialising in substance use disorders, eating disorders, trauma and other disorders of extreme stress. In her previous career that spanned 3 decades, she has worked at the C-suite and board  level for several Fortune 500 companies including in private equity, investment banking and in high-end wellness organisations across the Asia Pacific. Having retrained as a psychotherapist, she is uniquely positioned to provide support to individuals seeking recovery from trauma and stressor-related disorders which include problems related to substance use and other addictions, eating disorders, and problems related to executive burnout and general work-life imbalance.

Her approach is a holistic one and she works from the biopsychosocial perspective of health and wellness. She is a firm advocate of person-centred therapeutic methods allied to cognitive-based therapies, as well as the wider principles of behavioural and social psychology.

Alexis is a long-time collaborator of Resh Joseph, and uses the Highlands methodology  wherever appropriate in working with clients adding her own unique set of skills and talent to the benefit of those she works with.

After serving the community of New South Wales as a police officer for 18 years, Kate found herself in a position where she could no longer continue and realised that she needed care herself. Many places and programs claimed to be able to ‘fix’ her, but it wasn’t until she found help from an organisation dedicated to healing that she was given the space to start her healing journey.

This organisation also introduced her to meditation, which was life-changing and sparked her passion for finding therapies to complement the traditional medicine approach to treating people like her. It also inspired her to share her skills and knowledge with others.

Her journey led her to rediscover yoga after a long absence, and subsequently become a qualified instructor and start her own business. The mindset of the yoga she practices and teaches is about healing. Coming from a place of lived experience, she is deeply passionate about the rehab and recovery space because she has witnessed firsthand how holistic approaches can transform lives. Her mission is to help others find their path to recovery and well-being, just as she did.

With extensive experience working at a high level in some of the best restaurants in the Southern Highlands, including PepperGreen Estate, Centennial Vineyards, Bistro Sociale, and Briars Lodge, Will brings a wealth of culinary expertise. His wide range of cooking experience spans from breakfast and café work to high-end restaurant cuisine and catering for large functions.

Passionate about his craft, Will deeply understands the importance of quality care, having had personal experiences with individuals who have lived through traumatic events. Will believes that access to healthy, wholesome food is paramount to the recovery process—healthy body, healthy mind.

Will loves helping others reach their maximum potential and finds great joy in reading and learning about new dishes and cooking methods. In his free time, he enjoys spending time in nature, exploring new places, and engaging in fantasy roleplaying and miniatures wargaming.

Aiyana comes from a background in Marketing and Communications, she brings a unique perspective to the world of holistic wellness and recovery.

Aiyana’s journey to wellness began with her passion for running, viewing it not only as a means of physical fitness but also as a powerful tool for maintaining mental health. She firmly believes in the transformative power of exercise and a balanced diet for cultivating a positive mindset.

In her early twenties, Aiyana ventured into the world of professional horse riding, honing her skills and competing at the highest levels, including at an International Olympic Dressage Barn in The Netherlands. This experience instilled in her a deep appreciation for discipline, perseverance, and the symbiotic relationship between human and animal well-being.

Today, Aiyana shares her expertise and passion by teaching horse riding students in her spare time. She finds immense joy in witnessing their growth and development, embodying her belief in the importance of helping others reach their full potential.

Driven by a genuine desire to make a difference in people’s lives, Aiyana is dedicated to promoting holistic wellness and empowering individuals to lead happier, healthier lives.

Ian Watts is a seasoned sales management professional with over 20 years of hands-on experience across diverse product and service sectors. His strong interpersonal communication skills are complemented by a solid background in knowledge of the Clinical Program here at Highlands Recovery. With a combined proficiency in business operations and ability to treat each client with compassion and empathy makes him an exceptional CRM.

Ian is passionate about family, travel, architecture, and mechanical design. He actively promotes mental health and fitness through rock climbing and cycling, enjoying all forms of bike riding. His enthusiasm for vehicles extends to motorbikes, historic sports cars, and open-wheel racing cars. Ian’s diverse interests reflect his dynamic personality and commitment to a balanced life.

Rochelle is a highly professional and enthusiastic member of the leadership team at Highlands Recovery in the role of General Manager of Operations. She brings with her a wealth of experience in people and situation management from her nearly 18 years in a fast-paced and dynamic government organisation. With highly developed verbal and written communication skills, she excels in collaborative leadership and teamwork, ensuring that the highest standards of customer service, situational awareness, and emotional intelligence are maintained throughout the operations and guest relations at Highlands Recovery.

Since transitioning from her previous role, Rochelle has engaged in a number of passion projects, including volunteering in a collaboration between Racing NSW and a veteran support organisation. She assisted in developing the framework for a program targeting Ex-Service Personnel and First Responders, many of whom were experiencing PTSD and chemical addictions. Participants learned the skills to retrain former racehorses and, at the conclusion of the program, rode the horse they trained on a trek through Mt Kosciuszko. She is deeply committed to providing a world-class facility for the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-related mental health issues.

Outside of her professional achievements, Rochelle loves spending time on her 7-acre property, engaging in equestrian sports, cooking, and enjoying outdoor activities with her family. Her passion for these hobbies complements her professional life, providing her with a balanced and enriched perspective that she brings to Highlands Recovery, contributing significantly to the well-being and recovery of our clients.

Henry is a dedicated personal trainer with 11 years of experience in the fitness industry and brings a wealth of knowledge and a true passion for health and wellness to his work.

 As a Type-1 Diabetic, Henry understands the importance of fitness in managing health conditions, both physical and mental, firsthand. His journey has fueled his dedication to helping others achieve their fitness goals while overcoming their own obstacles. As part of the Highlands Recovery team, Henry is committed to positively impacting physical and mental health through the transformative power of exercise.

Outside of the gym, Henry enjoys challenging himself through running, completing his first full marathon at the 2023 Sydney Marathon, as well as other fitness-based competitions.

Emily is passionate about helping people of all ages and capabilities to overcome personal challenges or tasks they believe don’t seem achievable. Emily enjoys empowering individuals through movement and educating them on how their body can be used for therapy to enhance their overall quality of life. Emily loves being the biggest cheerleader for her client’s success as they build sustainable healthy habits and smash goals.

In her down time, you will find Emily swimming, or baking something sweet.

Daniel is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with a keen interest in helping people with mental health disorders. Daniel has experience working with PTSD, MDD, anxiety and addiction disorders in private practice, and private mental health hospitals. He has seen firsthand how helpful exercise can be as an adjunct therapy to help people to make a full recovery.

Outside of work, you will find Dan riding bikes or hanging out with his furless dog Snoop.

Jack is a true believer that exercise is medicine and uses this passion to help people move and feel better. Jack knows firsthand how getting the right individualised support can become the catalyst for creating long-lasting change and brings this approach to exercise with clients.

When Jack is not with clients you will find Jack surfing, working out, skating along the bike track with his kids or taking his dog Teddy, for a run!

Annie is the head Yoga Instructor at Highlands Recovery and believes in the intrinsic biological and psychological benefits of yoga, allowing the practice to unfold its transformative power freely for herself and her clients. Annie is passionate about helping individuals tap into their inner strengths and overcome challenges with grace and ease.

Annie’s journey into the world of yoga began in 2002 when she attended her first Iyengar class, instantly feeling a newfound sense of grounding. Amidst the bustling energy of running a vibrant cafe in Sydney, she sought balance, finding solace in the sanctuary of yoga. Fuelled by a desire for growth, Annie pursued Yoga Teacher Training under the guidance of renowned mentors Christina Sell and Noah Maze. Their mentorship unveiled the profound benefits of yoga, both on and off the mat, shaping Annie’s teaching style into a dynamic blend of challenge and safety.

Annie sees yoga as more than just a physical practice; it’s a sacred space for shedding distractions and connecting with one’s inner self. Her classes are infused with a light-hearted yet timeless approach, gently nudging students beyond their comfort zones while empowering them to embrace new possibilities.

Outside of yoga, Annie keeps active with passions like soccer, skiing, and gym workouts. She loves getting upside down, cooking, gardening, and indulging in green juices.

Lisa is a qualified Massage Therapist with over 10 years’ experience in clinical and private practice settings. She loves working with Therapeutic Massage to bring a deep sense of serenity, balance and peace to her clients. 

Training as a therapist in 1998-1999 in Wollongong, at the Collage of Integral Healing Lisa then went on to run her private practice for 9 years before moving to the Southern Highlands. She has recently refreshed her studies at the Canberra Institute of Technology and has a blend of Eastern and Western modalities.

Lisa has a passion for body work with people who have had or are experiencing pain or trauma in all its forms, in conjunction with other psychotherapies. She believes in a bottom-up approach and practices somatic bodywork to assist clients to reconnect with their bodies and to feel safe in their own skin. 

Lisa believes that the body holds much more than our skin and organs and that body therapy can help a client release long held emotions, trauma and pain. That alongside psychotherapy can be a powerful tool to empower people towards lasting and profound transformation.

Lisa provides bodywork treatment and techniques to support the specific therapeutic needs of individual clients.  This includes a variety of modalities from Swedish, Acupressure or trigger point therapy, to myofascial release and deep tissue.

Fofe Vrettos is an experienced Nutritionist and Dietician. With a strong background in dietetics, nutrition, and administration. Since January 2018, she has been the Principal Nutritionist and Dietitian at Bowral Nutrition, where she provides private practice services to clients under private, NDIS, and Medicare schemes. Her clinic, located in Bowral CBD, utilises the Halaxy medical practice management software to streamline operations and enhance client care. Additionally, Fofe serves as a consulting dietitian for several organisations, including BaptistCare Southern Highlands, where she supports aged care in the community, and Community Links, where she contributes to the ReClaim eating disorder program and ADHD workshops. She also works with Mission Australia’s Triple Care Farm, providing nutritional guidance in a residential rehabilitation setting for young people.

Fofe’s extensive experience in these diverse sectors fuels her passion for the rehab and recovery space. She is dedicated to using her skills and knowledge to support individuals on their journey to better health and well-being. Her commitment to holistic care and her ability to connect with clients on a personal level make her a vital part of the Highlands Recovery team.

Georgia Gilkeson is a counsellor and Equine Therapist based in the Southern Highlands, NSW. With a profound passion for equine therapy and a robust foundation in counselling theories, she is committed to establishing safe and supportive environments that facilitate healing and personal growth for clients.

Georgia brings extensive experience in equine handling, possessing a deep insight into horses, their behaviour, and communication patterns essential for effective therapeutic interactions. A pivotal aspect of her approach involves creating metaphors and drawing parallels between horse behaviour and human emotions or experiences. She leverages strong observational skills to analyse clients’ interactions with horses, interpreting non-verbal cues, body language, and behavioural patterns to gain deeper insights into their emotions, thoughts, and relational dynamics.

Her particular interest lies in the trauma and healing space, where she applies equine therapy to help individuals navigate challenges, manage emotions, and cultivate resilience. Georgia blends her expertise in equine therapy with a strong commitment to holistic client care, ensuring impactful therapeutic experiences at Highlands Recovery.

Georgia is the mother of two daughters and resides in the Southern Highlands with her family and her beloved horses and dogs.

Dr. Peter Richard-Herbert is an integral part of our Clinical Team here at Highlands Recovery. He is a registered counsellor, consultant analytical psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, and psychoanalyst. He has over thirty years experiences in counselling Trauma, PTSD and addiction clients. His extensive experience and diverse skill set, encompassing psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, and psychoanalysis, allow him to offer comprehensive and effective therapy to our clients. 

Dr. Richard-Herbert is a Clinical member of the Psychotherapy & Counselling Federation of Australia (P.A.C.F.A ) and Australian Counselling Association – A.C.A. , National President of the Australasian Ego State Therapy Association A.E.S.T.A, Fellow and former NSW President of the Australian Hypnotherapists Association A.H.A. and also a  Senior Lecturer in Counselling at Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP), Sydney Campus.

Dr. Resh Joseph is the Clinical Director of Highlands Recovery, where he leads the clinical team with exceptional expertise and dedication. He began his professional career as a doctor in the UK. Having left medical practice some years ago he has fully retrained and now works as a psychotherapist. Resh is a renown expert in the field of trauma and addiction, having authored a book on overcoming trauma  and speaking regularly at international conferences. Resh is a member of the American Psychologist Association and is trained and certified in an array of Trauma treatment modalities including; Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy for Trauma (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). He is also a Certified Substance Abuse Therapist (CSAT),

Resh has been dedicated to the fields of Trauma and substance use disorder treatment since 2011. He began his career with the Singapore Prison Service, where he served as the main coordinator for psychiatric services within the entire prison population. His extensive experience also includes roles in the private sector, working as a substance abuse therapist at Promises Healthcare in Singapore, and at The Cabin’s inpatient treatment centre in Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai). At The Cabin’s outpatient centre in Singapore, he served as head counsellor. He has amassed over 20,000 hours of clinical therapy experience. 

Additionally, Resh served as the interim Clinical Director at Calm Rehab, where he was responsible for constructing the program from scratch, writing the program manual, training the clinical, medical, and support staff, and running the clinical program until the end of his contract. His diverse skill set and comprehensive approach to therapy make him an invaluable asset to Highlands Recovery, where he continues to contribute significantly to the fields of psychotherapy and counselling, helping individuals achieve better mental health and personal growth.