Substance Abuse

Substance Abuse

Overview

Every year, millions of Americans struggle with addiction to substances from alcohol and tobacco to illicit and prescription drugs. The effects of these disorders can have profound impacts on individuals and their families and loved ones.

Recovery from addiction is difficult, but with the right help it can definitely be achieved. Our experienced and compassionate providers are here to work with you on each step of your recovery.

Treated Conditions

  • Substance Use Disorders
  • Opioid Dependence (with suboxone treatment available)
  • Alcohol Dependence
  • Stimulant Dependence (including cocaine, methamphetamine, methylphenidate)
  • Benzodiazepine Dependence
  • Other substance use disorders
  • Comorbid Mood, Anxiety, and Psychotic Disorders (“Dual Diagnosis”)

FAQ

Depending on the substance, the acute phase of detox can be a medically complex time with the possibility of serious withdrawal symptoms. Our psychiatrists manage acute inpatient detoxification programs for different substances, including opiates, that allow careful monitoring and support during this initial process. Using up to date medical interventions, we are able to ease the process of detox so that patients can have the best opportunity to achieve and maintain sobriety. From there, we are able to work with you on a longer term treatment and recovery plan.

Although the physical effects of withdrawal might be stabilized within a few days, the psychological effects of addiction can take much longer to overcome — and this is a crucial step in achieving and sustaining sobriety. For many people, a period of intensive rehabilitation treatment is the most effective way to begin the psychological work of healing from addiction. Our physicians will work with you to determine appropriate levels of care, and to follow you through the course of your treatment.

We are able to follow patients for substance abuse treatment in a variety of settings. After acute detox, some patients do best in an intensive residential program, while others continue to live at home but come in for daily outpatient programs during the day or evening to continue to support their sobriety. These programs use a multidisciplinary team approach: our psychiatrists work in conjunction with trained therapists and others experienced in addiction treatment. We also offer ongoing support group meetings for individuals and their families, as well as special programs for alumni of substance abuse to remain connected and support each other in sobriety.

Absolutely. We know that many, perhaps most, individuals with substance use disorders also suffer from mood disorders, trauma, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. And sadly, we know that statistically, this extremely important group is actually less likely to get treatment than individuals with only a single diagnosis. Even more importantly, our doctors understand that an individual is always more than a diagnosis or a label: whatever the struggles you are facing, we are qualified to assist you, and we are grateful to be able to partner with you in your treatment.