Addiction Recovery Therapy in Marbella for Expats and International Clients
If a specific behaviour has started to run your life, willpower is rarely the issue. Most addictive patterns begin as a way to cope, switch off, avoid, or get through difficult feelings. Over time, the short-term relief comes with a cost: sleep, mood, relationships, focus, self-respect, and stability.
At Healing with Heather, I provide integrative psychotherapy support for adults who want to change an addictive pattern and rebuild steadier, more reliable coping.
Therapy could be for you if you happen to recognise any of the following.
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You promise yourself it will stop, then it happens again.
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You use alcohol, substances, food, work, screens, sex or gambling to numb stress or anxiety.
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You feel pulled into urges or routines that do not match your values.
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You hide behaviour, minimise it, or feel alone and or shameful.
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You function outwardly but continue to be stuck internally.
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You have made progress before, then slipped and lost momentum.
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Expat life has increased pressure, isolation, or lack of support networks.
What addiction can look like
Addiction is not limited to substances. It can also involve behaviours that become compulsive or hard to stop, including gambling, gaming, compulsive technology use, emotional eating, and overworking.
The focus is not on labels. It is on understanding what the pattern is doing for you, what keeps it going, and what needs to change so you can respond differently when discomfort hits.
How my support works
We focus on the mechanisms underneath the patterns and behaviours, not just the behaviours themselves.
Our work together may include:
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Mapping triggers, urges, and high-risk situations
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Identifying emotional drivers and unmet needs beneath the behaviour
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Building tools and safety plans for triggers and cravings
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Strengthening emotional regulation and self-awareness
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Reducing avoidance and rebuilding confidence step by step
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Creating a clear plan for slips, so a setback does not become a full return
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Aligning choices with your values and the life you want to rebuild
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Forgiveness, compassion and self acceptance work
The aim is not perfection. The aim is stability, self-trust, and consistent progress.
What sessions are like
Early sessions: we clarify what is happening, what has shaped it, and what needs to change first. We agree on a pace that fits your real life.
Ongoing sessions: we review what happened since the last session, identify patterns, practise tools, and apply them to real situations. Where it helps, I may suggest brief between-session practices to support momentum.
What you can reasonably expect
People often notice changes such as:
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More control over decisions and behaviour
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Reduced intensity of urges and quicker recovery after stress
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Fewer cycles of secrecy, shame, or isolation
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Better communication and more stable relationships
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Improved sleep, energy, and emotional regulation
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Clearer direction and stronger self acceptance and self respect
Recovery is rarely linear. Support stays focused on long-term change and realistic stability.
Therapy in Marbella
and online
Sessions are available in person in Marbella and online. Online sessions suit expats, international clients, and frequent travellers who want continuity and privacy while living between places.
Confidentiality and discretion: Many people seek support for addiction quietly. Sessions are handled with confidentiality, discretion, and respect.
Scope of support: this work provides emotional and practical support within a psychotherapy framework. It does not replace medical care when needed, and it is not an emergency service or detox center.
Sessions are €90 / 50 min
If you are in immediate danger or at risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact local emergency services. In Spain, call 112. Where appropriate, support can run alongside medical professionals or structured recovery services.
Heather Smith
Psychotherapist in Marbella
Testimonials
Daria Barylska
2025-12-23
I started started therapy with Heather after a very intense breakup that honestly became a breaking point in my life. I had never tried therapy before, and I’m usually not the most consistent person when it comes to sticking with things, so I didn’t really know what to expect. I began seeing her in September, and I’m still going regularly, which in itself says a lot. From the very beginning, she made me feel comfortable, understood, and safe enough to open up. She has a way of listening that makes you feel truly seen, without judgment, and her insights are always thoughtful and grounded. Therapy with her has helped me gain clarity, emotional stability, and a deeper understanding of myself. I’m still learning my patterns, but having her guidance has made that process feel much more manageable and meaningful. It’s been a huge support during a very challenging chapter of my life, and I genuinely feel the positive impact of our work together. I’m really grateful I found her and would absolutely recommend her to anyone who’s considering therapy, especially if it’s their first time 🤍
Maria Rybkin
2025-12-18
Coming from years of trying to find right therapist, being able to meet for a short call to see if Heather and I are compatible has been the most convenient and helpful feature. Being able to build my own structure during our sessions while also having Heather maintaining balance for what I need in the moment and what we’ve been working on has been crucial in my journey. These last five months has challenged me and grown me into a person I want to be which is the best result of going to therapy. Affordable and flexible, the way Heather runs her practice has been life changing.
Ethan Phillips
2025-12-15
I’ve had an amazing experience with Heather as a first time attending any personal therapy. Especially as a young adult, it is very helpful and even in short periods of time I have began to see some major benefits from sessions with her!!
Nina Kobakhidze
2025-12-10
Therapist who actually gets it, meeting with her is a highlight of my week. Kind, attentive, and genuinely helpful. Highly recommend!
Priscilla Casale
2025-12-09
Heather's a great therapist who offers a fresh and interactive approach to therapy. She's kind, empathic and real. A few sessions in and your life will start to change for the better!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this support only for substances?
No. Support can also help with compulsive behaviours such as gambling, technology use, emotional eating,overworking and other addictive behaviours .
What if I have slipped recently?
That is common. Support can focus on what led to it, what needs to change, and how to respond differently next time.
Is therapy available in English in Spain?
Yes. All sessions are in English for expats and international clients in Marbella, the Costa del Sol, and online.