Behaviour based around the misuse, dependence on or addiction to mood altering substances is often related to emotional pain based on dissatisfaction with other areas of life.  In this regard, the substances are a form of self-medication which masks the affects of experiences of discomfort.

Misuse of drugs and alcohol however rarely leads to a solution to the emotional wound.  The severity of the emotional wound can be from simply needing alcohol to relax and ‘play’ in a social sense, to misusing illicit and prescription drugs to numb deep trauma associated with previous abuse situations.

 Kellene in particular, is an experienced drug and alcohol counsellor having worked with individuals, couples and families being affected by own drug use or the drug use of significant others. She has also worked with individuals within prison environments.