Addiction Counseling
support and accountability
Defining Addiction
According to ASAM (American Society Of Addiction Medicine) addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.
Addiction is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of treatment programs are there?
Based on scientific research key principles for effective treatment should address the many levels of addiction.
- Outpatient Treatment: Retain your freedom while getting help and finding new ways to cope with life pressures. It typically involves a time commitment of approximately 5 hours (or less) a week. Intensive
- Intensive Outpatient Treatment:This treatment program allows you to live off-site and attend groups and classes during the day.
- Residential Treatment: This includes a comprehensive, individualized plan to create a holistically healthy person who can begin to take on challenges while in an environment free of drugs and alcohol.
What happens at a treatment center?
- Psychotherapy groups
- Educational groups
- Individual counseling
- Ongoing activities away from the facility
- Regular physical activity
- 12 step support groups
- Medical and psychiatric support
- Alternative treatments including yoga, mindfulness, and acupuncture
- Healthy and nutritional diet
- Recovery mentors for ongoing support
- Weekend passes away from the facility
- Family therapy groups
What if I need to detox ?
For detox you need a medically-managed, full-service to ensure you’re comfortable and safe during withdrawal. A hospital detox program is a good idea or an inpatient treatment facility where there is a licensed addiction specialist and nurses on staff. Remember though that medically assisted detoxification is only the first stage of treatment.
When should I start treatment?
Addiction kills relationships and destroy bodies. People need to have quick access to treatment, but not everybody is ready right away. Go for treatment the moment you feel ready for change. It may not be too late to get your life back together.
How long will I have to stay at the facility?
A facility that offers support, encouragement, accountability, and structure usually have a stay of 25-45 days to allow clients an opportunity to create a more fulfilling and sober life. Staying in treatment long enough is critical.
Do I need to take medicine?
Medications are often an important part of treatment, especially in combination with behavioral therapy, However, drug use during treatment must be monitored continuously.
Addiction Resources
Find Help Here
There is nothing easy about the journey to find and maintain sobriety, but with the support of peers, family, friends, and mental health professionals, you, like many others, can make it out.
Contact us if you are ready for change. Heleen will create an individual and comprehensive treatment plan with you, and also check for other co-occurring mental disorders.
