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Overcoming Addiction: Alcohol, Drugs, Sex, or Other Unhealthy Attachments

Addiction is related to disorders in the brain, and also within your DNA, which alter the normal effects of dopamine and serotonin production and release, both during and after the presence of the ingested substance. When chemicals are involved, the brain is damaged physiologically, making abstinence all the more difficult. Recent studies indicate that, for the greatest chance at success, treating addiction requires a three prong approach: psychotherapy with a specialist who has extensive experience in this area, a 12 step program, and pharmacology support, when appropriate.

I have worked with addictions throughout my entire career, with great success. Perhaps that is because I utilize a team approach to recovery, making good use of a network of nutritionists, medical doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists, recovery facilities, chiropractors, naturopaths, acupuncturists, somatic release body workers and more. I advocate supplements, saunas, sports, activities, education, support groups and other additional treatments to increase your likelihood of long-term recovery. Knowing that you have a vibrant, fulfilling life waiting for you on the other side of your addiction makes a huge difference! Please see my Consultancy Page for additional support services.

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Achieving Succesful Recovery

Abstinence is not the same thing as recovery. Have you ever heard of a dry drunk? That is a person who has not addresses the temperament, dysfunctional coping mechanisms, emotional issues or trauma that led them to abuse people, substances, gaming, gambling or sex in the first place. Dealing with the underlying issues that caused you to numb, distract, hide, disassociate and indulge your unhealthy patterns is critical in attaining honest and lasting recovery.

I understand and sympathize with the fact that you have an addictive disorder—a medical condition. Addiction is not about having a character flaw. Recovery is about treating the physiological disorder along with your emotional experience, your family history, your past personal traumas, and your faulty belief systems . . . and doing so with depth, honesty, integrity and personal respect. These are the things that will allow you to “recover” your self-esteem and accept responsibility for your life, enabling you to create the future that you desire.

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