Breaking Free - your pathway to a drug and alcohol-free life
For men and women who want to live a fulfilling and powerful sober life.
12 weeks of group coaching, 1:1 counselling and learning strategies and skills to be sober and enjoy it.
Does this hit close to home?
- Are you tired of waking up with a pounding headache and feeling regretful after a night of drinking or doing drugs? You can't even check your phone because you've already deleted the messages you sent in the early hours of the morning.
- Do your relationships feel uncertain because of how much you drink? You don't even know what you want in your relationships. You keep accepting whatever treatment you get because you don't think you deserve anything better.
- Are you stuck in a loop where you keep craving and needing alcohol all the time? You want to stop, but every time you go a few days or weeks without it, you feel like you really need it. You can't sleep or concentrate without it, and you can't be social without it – it's always on your mind.
- Have you promised yourself over and over that you'd quit drinking, but it's been tough and you feel like you can't control it? You keep letting yourself down and it feels like you can't change.
- Are alcohol and drugs making you feel tired, nervous, and sad? Every time after a big night, you're not yourself. You don't want to be around people, you feel alone, and everything is hard!
- You know you have potential, but those substances are holding you back? You're a good person and you want to do more in life, but alcohol keeps making you repeat the same mistakes. You don't feel motivated to make any real changes in your life.
- Are you tired of doubting yourself and hurting yourself? Every time you do something that hurts others and yourself, it takes away your trust in yourself. Every time you do something foolish when you're drunk, you keep feeling shame and guilt.
I get it, I've been there...
I used to walk down a familiar path – late-night rides home in cabs, always thinking about the next drink. I let down the people I cared about, stuck in a cycle of drinking and drugs. Lonely nights at home, seeking comfort in substances, feeling out of place and uneasy without them in social situations. Struggling to pay rent, yet somehow finding money for drugs.
I used to work in an industry where substances were accepted, and it nearly ruined me. I lived in a chaotic world where alcohol and drugs weren't just for fun; I needed them to cope with life. I remember talking to my grandma, who raised me. I was driving home at 5am, drunk and high, crying because I couldn't handle life. She was 80 years old, living far away. I felt powerless... addiction took my control, and I gave up.
But then, something changed in me. I found the strength to break free from alcohol and drugs, and my life completely turned around. No more shame, regret, guilt, or self-hatred. I just wish my grandma could see me now!
From sales manager battling a cocaine and alcohol addiction to embracing this new life
- I organize events that celebrate sobriety, fostering empowerment and connection among attendees.
- I have a graduate diploma in counselling with Australian College of Applied Professions.
- I hold a license as a PACFA Psychotherapist.
- I am a certified coach, helping others on their journey.
- I am currently studying Psychology at Australian College of Applied Professions.
- I've undergone training in DBT with Dr Marsha Linehan, enhancing my skills to assist those seeking help.
- With 11k followers on Instagram and TikTok, my message is reaching and resonating with many.
- My relationships are now healthy and fulfilling.
- Confidence and self-assurance have become my companions.
- Socializing without relying on substances is something I genuinely enjoy.
Please Read Carefully
This program is tailored to individuals who…
- Desire to boost their confidence in their sobriety journey.
- Have experimented with moderation, finding it ineffective.
- Wish to understand their emotions better and learn techniques for regulation.
- Find that alcohol and drugs are triggering intense anxiety.
- Seek a supportive community of like-minded individuals on a similar path.
- Aspire to uncover their true selves without the influence of alcohol and drugs.
However, this program might not be suitable if...
- You are not willing to put in the effort required for personal growth and breaking free from alcohol and drugs.
- You are attempting to manage your substance use through moderation.
- You don't believe you have an issue with alcohol and drugs.
- Your goal is not to lead a sober lifestyle.
“I understand that alcohol and drugs are causing troubles in my life, but... Why is it that everyone else can drink without issues, and I can't? I've attempted to quit in the past, but it's been really tough! I'm worried I'll miss out on the enjoyment. Maybe people won't want to spend time with me anymore. When times are rough, it makes me feel better.”
Is this you?
There's always an excuse, But lets change the way you think. You've tried drinking many times, with the same results, so why not try something new?
- You don't have to be like everyone else. Your journey with alcohol is unique due to how it affects your brain and other vulnerabilities. Learn about addiction and what led to your issues with alcohol and drugs. Addiction isn’t your fault!
- Sobriety isn't a failure if you keep trying. Being sober is like starting fresh, just like a new baby. We will teach you the necessary tools, skills and support that will help you in your recovery.
- Would you stick with a bad ex just because they were fun? You'll discover how to find better natural highs, create new habits, and change your lifestyle.
- Have you really gotten to know the sober version of yourself? Learn your true values, how to trust yourself, build confidence, set boundaries, and gain skills to socialize without substances.
- Avoiding emotions only makes them harder to handle and will only worsen your mental health. Learn to understand and manage your emotions so they don't overwhelm you. You mindfulness, behavior modifications and changing thought patterns.
Imagine One Year from today
You might find Yourself:
Right where you are now:
- Feeling not so great about yourself
- In a not-so-good relationship
- Needing alcohol or drugs to socialize
- Dealing with poor mental health
- Feeling trapped
- Uncertain about your goals
- Frequently disappointed in yourself
- Enduring awful hangovers
- Struggling with finances
Or Picture this! One year from today,
- You are living a life where alcohol and drugs no longer control your thoughts and actions, instead you are the driver!
- Waking up feeling refreshed, energized with no regrets
- Having healthy relationships without the toxic drama
- Having clarity and not always overwhelmed with confusion
- Finally achieving goals and believing you deserve a good life
- Being able to set boundaries because you believe you are worth fighting for
- Not having that constant self – doubt because you are finally capable to turn up for yourself
- Having a deeper connection with yourself so you can manage your emotions, behaviors and thoughts.
How it Works
Private Community
Exclusive Geneva Group App
Weekly 1:1 Online Therapy
Workshops and Group Counselling
Useful Tools and Resources for Your Week
I've seen it happen over and over again! Clients join the program not knowing who they are without alcohol and doubting if they can ever be sober. But in just 12 weeks, they grow more confident and achieve things they once thought were impossible. It's truly amazing!
I've designed a comprehensive 12-weeks program to help you break free from substances.
It's grounded in evidence-based techniques like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a unique therapeutic approach that blends cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. What distinguishes DBT from other techniques is its focus on striking a balance between acceptance and change. This approach is especially effective in addiction treatment, as it helps individuals not only acknowledge their emotions and thoughts but also actively work to alter harmful behaviors and addictive patterns. DBT's effectiveness in addiction recovery lies in its ability to equip individuals with practical skills to manage intense cravings, navigate emotional challenges, improve relationships, and ultimately lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Understanding Addiction
The program will help you understand addiction by teaching you that it's not just a lack of willpower or a character flaw. It's often a way of coping with emotional pain or stress. You will learn that addiction is a symptom of a deeper problem.
Balancing Acceptance and Change
We will encourage you to accept yourself and your addictive behaviors, while also working to change those behaviors. It's like saying, "I accept that I have a problem, but I also want to change and lead a healthier life."
Skills Training
We provide practical DBT skills for dealing with intense emotions and cravings. These skills will be your tools in your recovery toolbox for managing your substance use, helping you to resist the urge to use.
Mindfulness
You will learn mindfulness techniques, which help you stay in the present moment without judgment. This can be useful for breaking the cycle of using substances by reducing impulsive behavior.
Supportive Therapy
You will be encouraged to attend group therapy sessions where you can share your experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. You will have your support network.
Therapeutic Relationship
You will build a strong therapeutic relationship with your counsellor. This counsellor will provide guidance and support, helping you navigate your journey to recovery.
Let's meet
Hi, I'm Mel
I am a skilled psychotherapist with a specialty in the treatment of addiction, including alcohol and drug abuse, as well as mental health concerns. With experience in both hospital settings and private practice, I have helped men and women break free from the grips of addiction, establish positive self-esteem, and develop new coping mechanisms.
My approach is founded on the belief that successful recovery requires access to diverse resources and support. That's why at Mel Watkins Therapy, I offer a range of cutting-edge recovery methods tailored to the individual needs of each client. From personalized one-on-one treatment plans to immersive educational group workshops, I am dedicated to providing a comprehensive toolkit for an individual's recovery.
Why I do it
Well, let me tell you, being an ex-addict was no fun! Dealing with those sneaky alcohol and drug monsters is tough, especially when you're all alone and skill-less. So, my program is all about teaching you the right tricks! I'm a big fan of dialectical behaviour therapy because it equips you with the superpowers to stay sober. It was a total game changer for me, and I'm eager to share these techniques with you!
And you know what else? I believe in the power of a strong squad! That's why I bring in a community vibe to this program. Connection is a huge part of recovery which is why I have implemented opportunities for you to learn and connect with likeminded people 😎💪
12 Weeks Breaking free program
Your path to an alcohol and drug free life
- 12 x 45-minute 1:1 online counselling sessions with Mel
- Join 3 x monthly group support sessions
- Access to our online community app for 3 months
- Receive daily support and motivation through our community
- Utilize breathwork and meditation audios and 100+ sober resources.
- Receive DBT worksheets and substance resources
- Weekly accountability and support through Friday evening group face times
- Access to online wellness workshops and listen to others who are in successful recovery
Reviews from our Clients
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Mel helped me completely transform my mindset and help developed flexible thinking.
Mel was empathetic, patient and held no judgement, making opening up and talking to her easy. She offered plenty of practical tips and exercises to help me. For anyone wanting to explore becoming sober, I would thoroughly recommend Mel for 1:1 coaching.
- Grace
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
From the first get to know you session I felt so comfortable with Mel.
She created a bespoke plan for me and we worked together over 8 sessions to make sure I had all the tools I needed to begin and successfully maintain my sobriety. Working with Mel changed my life! With goals clearly set out from the beginning I can see them all coming true now! As we live on opposite sides of the world Mel did everything she could to accommodate the time difference and was always there when I needed support. I couldn’t recommend Mel enough and I will be forever grateful and thankful to her!
- Vicki
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Since starting the 12 week program I’ve found my relationship with drugs and alcohol to be one of more of an illusion and in turn I have discovered the true reality of what it did for me.
Mel gave me the ability to finally have forgiveness for myself and gave me a true insight into who I was in in its rawest form. The relief I felt when I started to give myself attainable expectations in sobriety changed me. No longer did I feel the need to fill a false narrative in which my role was composed of constant comparisons to those who don’t suffer from alcoholism and drug addiction. My reality is that I am someone with a real and life altering problem that requires a PROCESS of healing - and that it is a work in progress. Not one with constant and instant positive changes but one with hiccups, obstacles and life on life’s terms. This all coincided with constant reflection of where I was- and where I am at each stage of my recovery. Even though the graph line of improvement isn’t straight or completely linear with time. It is always greater over time. And that is the only way - in my mind a recovery from such a complex issue can be achieved. Also being in a group with other likeminded clients of Mel’s fighting the same battle I am and sharing our highs and lows is grounding, healing and maintains true connection for me.
I’d recommend this program to anyone struggling with alcohol or drugs - however bad people may think the problem has become or how irreversible it may seem. I was admitted 3 times to the psych ward after with serious mental health and addiction issues. and have completed 2 long stay (4 months worth) of inpatient rehabs prior in my life. I was using and drinking every single day, absolutely hopeless, lonely and at rock bottom. I truely think if you have a pulse, then you still have a chance.
- Alex
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Since beginning the 12 week program my relationship with substances and mental health have improved drastically.
I am now happy and calm almost daily and when I am not, I have the skills, community and Mel to help navigate my emotions. I have reached many milestones in my sobriety, thanks to this program. For example, I recently attended a wedding and was one of the last to leave. I danced, socialised and realised I CHOOSE sobriety.
I tried to get sober for many years before starting the 12 week program. Having weekly 1:1 sessions with Mel was my greatest motivation to stay sober and once the program was complete, I had the skills to keep going. Also, still offers 1:1 counselling sessions, monthly group sessions, Friday Facetime check ins and so much more! My favourite part was learning more about myself and how to make the best decisions for me.
I highly recommend this program to others struggling with substances, mostly because Mel is so relatable, everything I was going through, Mel had been through it too. It's like when you find that person that just gets you and listens, but on top of that has the knowledge, skills and tools to support you. Thanks to Mel and her program, I have become the best version of myself and have found a true love for sobriety.
- Taylor
Still unsure?
I think I know what you are thinking and I had all these thoughts stopping me from getting sober too.
The program costs money!
I get it, but it's way less expensive than using drugs or alcohol all the time. How much are you spending on those each week?! Plus, we're talking about putting money in yourself, which is an investment that will help you in the future. Being sober is the greatest gift you can give yourself, and just think about all the opportunities and freedom you will have once you get rid of substances from your life.
I don’t think I’m ready to be sober yet?
This is a big decision point for you. Haven't you tried alcohol and drugs a lot and got the same outcomes? The addicted part of you will always find a reason to say you're not ready... I understand! I know it's frightening, but growth comes from fear, and you can't go back now.
Are you concerned about how much time this will take?
Well, this program needs around 1.5 hours every week. And guess what? The more effort you give, the more you'll gain. Think about the time you usually spend on drinking, drugs, or just mindlessly scrolling on your phone. I'm suggesting that instead of that, you should use that time to invest in yourself. Work on becoming better and building a life that's meaningful. I've set up the program, so all you need to do is show up for a 1-hour personal session every week, join a group session once a month, practice the things you learn, and be part of a supportive community whenever you can.
But is my drinking or drug use really that problematic?
I still have a regular job and handle most of my responsibilities. So, why are you reading this page? Just think, if you can hold a full-time job even while using these substances, imagine what you could achieve without relying on alcohol and drugs. Aren't you tired of feeling awful while juggling everything in your life? It's not usual to wake up feeling anxious and depressed every single day. It's time to stop making life difficult and disorderly for yourself.
