Addiction Advice

​Simply request a session or email Ali or Oswin to schedule a free telephone conversation.

You don’t have to face it alone

Taking the first step towards talking about alcohol or drug use can be difficult. You may be worried about your own drinking or drug use, concerned about someone you love or simply wondering whether things have gone too far.

You don’t need to know exactly what you need before you get in touch.

At The Practice, we offer an opportunity for a free confidential conversation with an experienced addiction counsellor. It’s a chance to talk openly about what’s happening, ask questions and explore what support might help.

There is no judgement, no pressure and no obligation to take things further.

Sometimes, the most important first step is simply talking to someone has been where you are.

Speak to someone who understands

Ali Miranda and Oswin Brenner are experienced addiction counsellors supporting people affected by alcohol and drug use. Alongside their professional training, they bring lived experience and a genuine understanding of the complexities of addiction.

When you contact us, you’ll speak directly with Ali or Oswin. You can tell them as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing. They’ll listen, help you make sense of what you’re experiencing and talk through the options available to you.

You don’t have to make a decision today. Just start the conversation.

Simply request a session, email Ali or Oswin or call 0333 0096 321 to schedule a free telephone conversation. 

All conversations are kept strictly confidential.

The Practice 12-week Addiction Program

The Practice Addiction Programme runs as a closed group of up to 12 people, meeting in person once a week for 90 minutes, facilitated by two qualified addiction counsellors at one of The Practice's two Surrey locations: Weybridge and East Molesey.

Week 1: Orientation & Psychological Safety

An introduction to the group, creating a safe, supportive and confidential space where participants can begin to get to know one another.

Week 2: Addiction & the Brain 

Exploring how addiction affects the brain and why changing long-standing patterns can be challenging.

Week 3: Triggers and Cravings Motivation & Values

Identifying personal triggers and learning practical ways to manage cravings.

Week 4: Coping Skills I

Introducing healthy coping strategies to manage stress and difficult emotions.

Week 5: Coping Skills II

Building on the previous week by practising and strengthening practical coping techniques for everyday life.

Week 6: Thinking Patterns

Recognising unhelpful thinking patterns and exploring healthier ways of responding to them.

Week 7: Behaviour Change / Relapse Prevention

Understanding how lasting change happens and developing strategies to reduce the risk of relapse.

Week 8: Relationships & Boundaries

Exploring the role of relationships in recovery and learning to establish healthy boundaries.

Week 9: Shame, Guilt & Self Compassion

Understanding the impact of shame and guilt while developing a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

Week 10: Relapse Prevention / Lifestyle Balance and Routine

Creating a personalised relapse prevention plan to support long-term recovery.

Week 11: Identity & Meaning in Recovery

Exploring identity beyond addiction and identifying values, purpose and future goals.

Week 12: Ending & Continuity

Reflecting on progress, celebrating achievements and planning the next steps in recovery.