What is addiction?

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) says addiction “is a primary, chronic, neurobiological disease, with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. It is characterized by behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use, compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving…”

In other words, addiction is a disease of the brain with many causes that result in out-of-control behavior that must be treated. Addicts often have other problems that influence their repeated use, problems like anxiety or depression or painful memories. These are called coexisting conditions. You hear about people using alcohol or drugs to self-medicate to relieve their anxiety or depression. But once an addiction has been developed, you can’t just treat the anxiety or depression and expect the addiction to go away. You have to also treat the disease of addiction itself. (Carnes, 2011)

What topics are covered in this group?

• There’s a focus on breaking through denial and self-delusion, understanding your addictive system, what addiction is, acceptance, learning a new way to respond to change and crisis, relapse prevention and defining your addiction specifically, relationships and support networks, and a very brief look at long-term recovery.

• There is one required workbook for this group, which you’ll be informed of upon registration.

More Info.

• 8-week group therapy program offered on Zoom for 1-hour weekly.

• Sobriety is required during the duration of each group session.

• Those in group therapy can also schedule individual therapy sessions.

• Payment of $480.00 will be required at time of registration. Please let me know if you’re interested in a payment plan.