Parents – signs your son or daughter may need help

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How can I tell if my son or daughter is on drugs?

Teenage addiction is a rampant issue in the United States, so much so that some people think our very future as a nation is at stake. As a role model and guardian of your teen, it’s paramount that you do everything you can to curb their drug habit before it gets out of control – or before it even happens. The best parenting in the world doesn’t assure abstaining from drug use, unfortunately. What with peer pressure and social groups having such an impact on your kid, it’s no wonder that nearly 60% of highschool seniors admit to having used alcohol, ⅓ admitted to cannabis and 15% prescription drug use. Those are scary numbers because if they do that much at such a young age, just imagine how early adult life will be. If you can get a handle on the situation, there’s hope. The purpose of this blog is to teach you how to do just that.

Signs of Teen Drug Abuse

Assessing your teens behavior and learning the signs of drug use is critical in preventing a bad habit from turning into addiction. You may have the mindset that you don’t want to seem invasive to your teen in order to not seem like an overbearing parent. While this is understandable, your teens health and life are much more important than their independence. Understand what to look for if you think your kid is on drugs.

The three main categories of signals are as follows:

  1. Habitual Changes
  2. Physical Appearance
  3. Situational Awareness

Habitual Changes

Variation in your teens typical habits is one of the first signs. Individually, they may seem unrelated but when pieced together with the knowhow you’ve learned from this blog, you will be able to identify the patterns.

Habitual changes to look out for in teens on drugs include:

  • Change in Appetite – Different drugs affect the system in different ways, some increase your appetite and some decrease it. The similarity between them all, though, is that the change in appetite is sudden.
  • Different Social Groups – Teens who do drugs typically will hangout with other teens that do drugs. If you notice that they’re hanging out with different kids than they generally do or that their new friends are suspicious themselves, it may be an indicator.
  • Misbehavior – Abrupt transgression or distantness, whether at home or in school, is one of the top signs that a teen may be on drugs. That’s not to say that other social factors may be at play, but when in cahoots with the other symptoms of use, it may be cause for worry.

Physical Appearance

Changes in physical appearance may be hard to identify initially, but as with habitual changes, multiple factors in unison may be a cause for worry. Especially when in junction with habit.

Physical changes to keep an eye out for are:

  • Eyes – Certain drugs affect the eyes greatly, but typically what you should look for is bloodshot eyes or dilation of pupils. Pupils get very big on some drugs, very small on others.
  • Arms – Random bruises or wounds on the arm, especially near the inside of the elbow, can have serious implications. If your teen is wearing long sleeves at inappropriate times, they may be hiding these symptoms.
  • Cheeks – Cheeks can become flushed or extra rosy depending on which drug was used.
  • Hygiene – If you notice a sudden change in cleanliness, it could be a result of drug use.
  • Fingers – Burns or soot on fingers is also an indication.
  • Shaking – Shaking or involuntary movement can have severe implications.
  • Smell – Unidentifiable smells on the clothing or breath might mean they were smoking something.
  • Nose – Bleeding of the nose or a constantly runny nose without being sick could mean that they’re snorting something.
  • Lips – Constantly licking lips could be an indicator of certain drugs.

Situational Awareness

Things you directly notice about your teens are helpful in diagnosing drug use, however, there are external factors that you should pay attention to that may also be relevant.

Situational factors to watch for can be:

Secretive Behavior

Some teens are secretive by nature, this isn’t necessarily for them. This is for extroverted teens that suddenly appear introverted. You can’t assume that this is drugs without context, they could be going through a breakup or getting bullied; but you should still pay mind to what’s happening.

Secretive behaviors to look out for might include:

  • Presence – If your teen is going out nightly or disappearing for extended periods of time, it may be a sign.
  • Seclusion – If your teen is actively avoiding your or locking their bedroom door, they may be attempting to hide something.
  • Theft – If your teen is stealing from you or anyone else you can certainly take it as a tell-tale sign that something is wrong.
  • Punctuality – If your kid is consistently late or absent to work or school there’s almost definitely an extenuating circumstance affecting their schedule.

Changes in the Home Environment

There are some very obvious happenings in your home that will tip you off to your teen’s drug use, but most are much less subtle. Finding a bag of drugs, for example, is a no-brainer. The other attributes are harder to discern.

Changes to look out for in your home environment are as follows:

  • Suspicious Use of Household Items – If you find containers, wrappers, or aluminum foil in odd places they could be paraphernalia.
  • Paraphernalia – Other drug paraphernalia includes smoking apparatuses, eye drops, lighters and syringes.
  • Car – Inexplicable dents or scratches on the car could mean that they were driving under the influence.
  • Missing Libations – If you yourself partake in any drug use, whether prescribed or responsible, it’s important that you take note of amounts and look for missing stock.

So You Think Your Teen is On Drugs

You’ve read this whole blog, you know what to look for and now you have an intelligent guess that your teenager is on drugs. The word of parental authority only reaches so far in a teen’s ears. It may be time to seek professional help. Our professional rehabilitation facility here in Rancho Mirage, CA might be exactly the source of guidance your child needs. They likely won’t be enthused to participate, but we have an 80% success rate in rehabilitating addicted or at risk youth. Don’t hesitate to contact us or set an appointment for your teen, their health is the most important part of their life.

Experiential outings at Addiction Therapeutic Services

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One of my favorite and most inspiring experiences here at Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) is the time spent with clients exploring the natural wonders in the Palm Springs area. When I get to be a part of the wonder, the connection, the awe that a client or clients shares when first introduced to the beauty of a desert mountain oasis with a natural waterfall, Big Horn sheep in their natural environment only 50 feet away or just being in nature for a brief time, I am always amazed at the connectivity experienced within the group.  The labels of addict, depression, anxiety or whatever just seem to disappear.

Tahquitz Canyon, Murray Canyon, Thousand Palms Nature Preserve, White water Conservancy, Los Rios Rancho and The Santa Rosa Mountains Interpretive Center are just a few of the places we go to find simplicity and inner peace.

Experiential outings are part of the comprehensive, person centered treatment here at Addiction Therapeutic Services. Please enjoy the following photos and don’t hesitate to contact us.

Peace is a condition of freedom from disturbance, whether outwardly, as of a nation from war or enemies or inwardly, as in the current context, within the soul. Peace implies health, well-being, and prosperity.

Best,

Mark Worthington CATC II

Primary Counselor

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Substance Abuse Therapy and Sober Living Rancho Mirage

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When it comes to recovering from addiction, camaraderie is an important treatment element.  While some might not consider the social aspect as all that important to addiction recovery, and would probably hesitate to call it a treatment element, the fact is that group therapy and sober living provide a social support system that is essential to a successful recovery outcome.

The pairing of outpatient substance abuse treatment with sober living housing is a perfect match where recovery is concerned.  The active hours involved in the treatment program can arm clients with important new recovery tools, and returning to a sober living Rancho Mirage home that is drug and alcohol free can safeguard early sobriety during off-hours.

Outpatient Substance Abuse Therapy

When it comes to getting professional help for a substance use disorder there are many options to consider.  A treatment program that might appeal to one individual may be completely wrong for another, so knowing about the different types of rehabs is important at the outset.  For many people, considerations revolving around practical issues like cost and flexibility make the outpatient rehab an attractive option.

Because outpatient substance abuse treatment often provides many scheduling options it can provide some time in the day for the client to attend to their family or work obligations.  This is in contrast to a residential or inpatient rehab where the client would live at the facility for a month or more.  In outpatient treatment programs there are basic treatment activities that are standard, including:

  • Individual psychotherapy
  • Group counseling sessions
  • Classes that educate clients about addiction and help them prepare a relapse prevention plan
  • Family program
  • Life skills training
  • Experiential programming, such as mindfulness, art therapy, and yoga
  • Medication management, if applicable

Most outpatient treatment programs put their own identity stamp on their individual programs, offering a specific mission, theme, or focus that sets them apart.

Sober Living Rancho Mirage

Adding the sober living component can yield higher recovery success rates.  This is because sober living provides the crucial social element while also offering a safe, drug and alcohol-free living space.  The social aspect is important because in many cases getting sober means having to shed old friends and choose a new social network in sobriety.  Without access to peers during early recovery, loneliness could cause someone to reconnect with the partying friends they should be avoiding, and that could result in relapse.

Also, during active addiction, many lose their sense of responsibility and may develop unhealthy sleep schedules and eating habits.  Sober living requires the clients to abide by a list of stated rules and responsibilities, including the requirement that the client be up by a certain time in the morning, and to recognize house curfews in the evening.  Over time, the client ion sober living establishes healthy habits and regains their sense of responsibility.

How Substance Abuse Treatment and Sober Living Rancho Mirage Work Together

When combining outpatient rehab with sober living housing the client experiences a more comprehensive support system throughout their day.  After receiving treatment at the outpatient facility, the client returns home to a safe and supportive home environment.  The zero tolerance policy coupled with intermittent drug and alcohol testing creates a powerful deterrent to avoid slipping up.

The client will be learning assorted recovery skills in treatment that can be reinforced and practiced while living in sober living.  This provides a transitional housing option that allows the client to get stronger emotionally, physically, and spiritually before heading back to there regular life where they will be better equipped to handle the various triggers and stressors.

Addiction Therapeutic Services Provides Outpatient Treatment and Sober Living Rancho Mirage

Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) is a highly respected outpatient addiction treatment program in Rancho Mirage, California.  ATS partners with local sober living homes in the Rancho Mirage area that are accessible to their outpatient program, providing the added layer of support in early recovery.  ATS offers an impressive weekly schedule of group meetings that provide mentorship and instruction, balanced between traditional therapy and experiential and holistic activities.  For more information about the program, please contact ATS today at (760) 439-7007.

Outpatient Addiction Rehab and AA in the Desert

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Outpatient Addiction Rehab and A.A. in the Desert

There is something very comforting about being around others who share a common challenge.  This is the reason why addiction treatment programs emphasize both group therapy, in outpatient and inpatient settings, and the 12-step recovery groups.  Sharing individual experiences and struggles with peers provides a powerful dynamic for healing and support, especially in the early months of recovery.  One of the most compelling social support venues for helping overcome addiction is the Alcoholic Anonymous (A.A.) 12-step program.  With 12-step meetings plentiful in the Coachella Valley region, A.A. in the desert can be an essential treatment element for months and years to come.

Outpatient Rehab and AA in the Desert

Outpatient rehabilitation is a popular addiction treatment option, allowing a certain amount of flexibility that accommodates individuals with work or family obligations.  Outpatient treatment is also much more affordable, as the client will reside in their own home outside of the treatment hours.  Studies have shown that an intensive outpatient program (IOP) can be just as effective in treating addiction as an inpatient program.  An outpatient program is also a step down for those who have concluded their residential treatment program but want to continue with ongoing therapy.

A.A. is a worldwide nonprofit peer recovery program that was founded in 1938 by two Americans.  The program encompasses 12 steps that guide the individual toward spiritual awareness or awakening through principles that are woven throughout the steps.  The “Big Book” is the blue A.A. basic manual with recovery stories and information that most who are in recovery will access.  Currently, there are approximately 2 million members globally within the A.A. fellowship program, with 12-step meetings available in most metropolitan areas.

Program Elements of Outpatient Addiction Rehab

The beauty of an outpatient addiction treatment program is the ability to design the treatment plan according to needs.  Outpatient rehab can involve a minimum of hours weekly for continuing care needs, or up to 30 hours per week for an IOP.  The IOP is the better option for entrenched addictions with or without a co-occurring mental health condition, as it provides a deeper involvement in all aspects of therapy.

Therefore, the treatment elements in outpatient treatment vary in intensity and hours of participation based upon the individual’s history of substance abuse, related legal issues such as a DUI or public intoxication, or a dual diagnosis.  Generally, outpatient rehab involves the following program elements:

  • One-to-one talk therapy
  • Group therapy with peers in the program
  • Family programs
  • Medication management for mental health disorders or medication-assisted treatment
  • Ongoing addiction education classes, including relapse prevention planning
  • 12-step group participation
  • Access to adjunct treatment activities or therapies

How AA in the Desert Reinforces Recovery

The 12-step program has become ubiquitous with addiction recovery for decades.  It’s success is attributed to the element of peer or social support that results from the fellowship format of the meetings.  Because there is no fee involved, and meetings available across the nation, A.A. meetings can become an important tool in sustaining recovery.  Members can access as many meetings as they desire or need, as well as obtain a sponsor who can help them through the rough patches.

Another powerful aspect of A.A. is the element of service to others.  It has been found that those who offer support to others, either by becoming a sponsor or volunteering at A.A. events or meetings, can help solidify their own recovery.  Because of this, service to others is highly recommended for individuals with at least one year of sobriety.

Addiction Therapeutic Services Outpatient Rehab and AA in the Desert

Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) provides group counseling, individual therapy, family programming, 12-step programming, and life skills training in Rancho Mirage, California.  ATS creates a totally tailored treatment plan for each individual client, and integrates experiential therapies throughout the program.  These include mindfulness training, art therapy, process groups, and anger management, to name a few.  For more information on the ATS outpatient program, please contact our team today at (760) 349-7007.

Alcohol Withdrawal and the Importance of a Medically Monitored Detox

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Alcohol Withdrawal and the Importance of a Medically Monitored Detox

If you know you need to get help to quit drinking but are terrified of the detox process, understand that while the short-term may look scary, the long-term benefits of sobriety will far surpass the few miserable days in detox. There is no arguing that alcohol detox is intimidating. Anyone who has attempted to stop drinking on their own can attest to the highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that kick in soon after. But by understanding the effects of alcohol withdrawal and the importance of a medically monitored detox, you will soon grasp that detox is indeed manageable in a supervised setting.

About Alcohol Withdrawal and the Importance of a Medically Monitored Detox

One of the biggest deterrents or obstacles for an individual who sincerely desires to break free from the grip of alcohol dependence is the prospect of going through detox. Indeed, there are certain unpredictable, and potentially dangerous, withdrawal symptoms that can suddenly come into play. For this reason, alcohol detox deserves its reputation as the dreaded first step of recovery.

However, over the years medical advances and research have enabled an addiction detox team to administer several effective medical interventions that can alleviate the majority of the suffering. Withdrawal symptoms will commence within hours of the last alcoholic drink consumed, but the detox professionals are prepared to manage them throughout the detox period. The most common symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal syndrome include:

  • Shakes or tremors
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Fever
  • Increase in heart rate
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Hallucinations
  • Insomnia
  • Seizures
  • Delirium tremens (DTs)
  • Heart failure

The severity of these symptoms will be dependent on a host of factors, including the duration of alcohol abuse, the level of alcohol consumption, the health of the individual, and if there is a coexisting mental health condition present. The most important takeaway with regard to alcohol detox is not to attempt to undertake the process on your own. Severe alcohol withdrawal and the importance of a medically monitored detox should not be ignored.

What Is a Medically Monitored Alcohol Detox?

Upon arriving at the detox facility you will be thoroughly evaluated. Health history, addiction history, and mental health history will be assessed in an effort for the medical provider to properly prepare for the potential symptoms during your detox and withdrawal. The goal of assisting with alcohol withdrawal, and the importance of a medically monitored detox, is to minimize discomfort, provide emotional and medical support, and to supervise changes in health status during the detox phase.

Withdrawal symptoms emerge within a few hours and will intensify on days 2-3. In most cases, a benzodiazepine (Ativan or Valium usually) will be provided to help reduce anxiety and the possibility of seizure. In addition, medication is offered for nausea, gastrointestinal distress, fever, and headache. Some detox facilities also provide some holistic therapies, such as guided meditation, yoga, or massage, to help promote relaxation and comfort during detox.

Potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms may occur on days 4-7 of the detox period. This possibility underscores the importance of only attempting to detox in a supervised environment, as the DTs can be life threatening. Generally, alcohol detox is completed within 7-10 days.

Addiction Therapeutic Services Provides Medically Monitored Detox for Alcohol Recovery

Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) is a premium outpatient treatment program located in Rancho Mirage, California. Against the beautiful setting of the California desert, ATS provides a safe, supervised medically monitored detox for individuals desiring to overcome an alcohol use disorder. Following the detox and withdrawal phase, ATS offers a highly effective addiction treatment program that integrates various evidence-based therapies with holistic practices that treats the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The expert ATS clinical staff is second to none in training and experience in the field of addiction treatment, offering compassionate, targeted therapy to its clients. For more information about how ATS can assist you through the alcohol detox phase of recovery, please contact us today at (760) 439-7007.

Drug Rehab With Holistic Treatment Elements

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Drug Rehab With Holistic Treatment Elements

Addiction is a complex disease.  No two people have identical addiction blueprints, the causes or factors involved in the development of a drug or alcohol dependency.  Because of this, in order for addiction treatment to be effective it must be multidimensional, addressing all aspects of the individual—the mind, body, and soul.

Holistic and experiential therapies add a much needed layer to standard drug rehab programs, offering individuals in treatment the opportunity to grow and develop the mind-body-spirit connection.  This important treatment aspect of drug rehab, fostering this important connection, can make all the difference when seeking a sustained, lifelong recovery.

What is Holistic Drug Rehab?

Holistic treatment programs are based on the philosophy that the mind-body-soul connection is intertwined, so that disorder or discord in one area of health will impact the other two.  Based on this belief, the holistic rehab seeks to identify and treat the area that is unhealthy, that is causing disharmony and drug-seeking behavior.  By addressing the area of health that is out of sync, and guiding the individual with the tools to heal it, a lasting recovery is possible.

In general, holistic rehabilitation is comprised of a variety of eastern-influenced treatment elements.  The holistic program is usually located in a serene, naturally beautiful setting that enhances relaxation and healing, such as a coastal, desert, or mountain environment.  Holistic rehabs tend to be more intimate in scale, allowing the staff to focus on the needs and therapeutic preferences of each client.  Holistically oriented rehabs also tend to provide highly nutritious meals, often organic, and can address specific nutritional needs such as a gluten-free diet or a vegan diet.

What to Expect in Treatment?

Holistic drug rehab involves a comprehensive menu of treatment elements.  Because each individual’s substance use disorder is unique with varying treatment needs, an individualized treatment plan is drafted at the outset.  Those with more severe drug addictions will be assigned an intensive outpatient program (IOP) that requires about 25-30 hours of participation per week, and would have to complete detox and withdrawal prior to beginning the program.

Treatment for addiction encompasses specific therapy that best matches the individual’s needs.  One on one talk therapy is important for exploring deep pain or past traumas that may be contributing to the need to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.  Group therapy involves a facilitator who guides discussion in the counseling sessions. These provide peer support and also help family members learn better ways to communicate and relate moving forward.

Most outpatient treatment programs require the individual is actively involved in a 12-step or non 12-step recovery community.  In many cases, residing in a sober living home during and following the rehab program can offer an additional layer of support, reducing the risk of relapse.

How Holistic Treatment Elements Enhance Drug Rehab

The holistic treatment elements play an important role in the overall impact of the program.  This is because it goes beyond just treating the diagnosis, instead treating the whole person.  Some holistic therapies can include mindfulness training, yoga, exercise and recreational therapy, art and music therapy, guided meditation, and journaling.

Going through treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction is intense and difficult.  The holistic activities offer avenues for emotional growth and opportunities to gain new insights, all of which can enhance the traditional psychotherapy in outpatient rehab.  Self exploration through journaling or meditating, for instance, can lead to therapeutic breakthroughs that augment what is being learned in counseling.

Addiction Therapeutic Services Provides Holistic Alcohol and Drug Rehab

Addiction Therapeutic Services is an intensive outpatient drug and alcohol treatment program located in Ranch Mirage, California near Palm Desert, Cathedral City and the Coachella Valley.  ATS creates individualized treatment plans that are customized to the client’s specific needs.  Offering mindfulness training, life skills classes, art therapy, poetry groups, music therapy, and other holistic activities, ATS aims to strengthen the mind-body-soul connection in all its clients.  For more information about the program, please contact ATS at (760) 349-7007.

Help for Alcoholism in a Compassionate Outpatient Environment

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Compassionate Outpatient Help for Alcoholism

Becoming an alcoholic is not on anyone’s bucket list.  Who would ever choose to live a life of misery and ill health, to lose everything one cares about?  Alcohol use disorder (AUD) may take hold in ways no one can foresee.  From enjoying the craft beer craze a little too much or too-frequent wine tastings at local wineries, acquiring a problem with alcohol gradually sneaks up on a person.  As tolerance ramps ups, so does the need to consume more alcohol, and as a result AUD has one it its grip.

Alcohol addiction can happen rather swiftly when certain risk factors are present, such as a genetic propensity for it.  Other risk factors that can fuel alcohol abuse might include a high stress job, a co-existing mood disorder, marital or family discord, financial problems, or loss of a loved one.  Alcohol can become a panacea, a tool used to smooth out the emotional upheavals in life.  No one sets out to become an alcoholic.

About Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder covers the spectrum of alcohol abuse—from excessive drinking that causes negative consequences in one’s life to full-blown chemical dependency on alcohol.  According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nearly 16 million Americans suffer from problem drinking—15 million adults and over 600,000 adolescents were diagnosed with AUD in 2015.  Compulsive drinking that results in alcohol addiction has devastating consequences for the individual and their families.

The diagnostic criteria for AUD states that individuals must possess any two of the eleven criteria within a 12-month period.  The number of the criteria met will determine the severity of the AUD.  The DSM-5diagnostic criteria include: In the past year have you:

  1. Had times when you ended up drinking more, or longer than you intended?
  2. More than once wanted to cut down or stop drinking, or tried to, but couldn’t?
  3. Spent a lot of time drinking? Or being sick or getting over the after effects?
  4. Experienced craving, the strong need, or urge, to drink?
  5. Found that drinking—or being sick from drinking—often interfered with taking care of your home or family?
  6. Continued to drink even though it was causing trouble with your family or friends?
  7. Given up or cut back on activities that were important or interesting to you, or gave you pleasure, in order to drink?
  8. More than once gotten into situations while or after drinking that increased your chances of getting hurt (such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe sex)?
  9. Continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem? Or having had a memory blackout?
  10. Had to drink much more than you once did to get the effect your want? Or found that your usual number of drinks had much less effect than before?
  11. Found that when the effects of alcohol were wearing off, you had withdrawal symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, irritability, anxiety, depression, restlessness, nausea, or sweating? Or sensed things that were not there?

Outpatient Help for Alcoholism

It is never too early to get help for an alcohol problem.  The sooner an individual with an AUD gets intervention and treatment, the less fallout will occur in one’s life.  An outpatient treatment program for treating AUD is an excellent option for the individual who needs flexibility that allows them to continue with work and family obligations.  During outpatient treatment, the client is able to remain at home, or to work or attend school, outside of treatment hours.

During the initial assessment and intake interview the level of participation in the outpatient program is determined based on the treatment needs of the client.  Help for alcoholism involves a multi-pronged approach that will begin after the client has detoxed from the alcohol in his or her system.  At that point, active participation in the various treatment modalities begins.

Outpatient Treatment for AUD

During the period of outpatient treatment, the client may opt to continue to reside in their family home or residence or live in a sober living environment.  Making this choice will depend upon the level of severity of the AUD, personal resources, and whether there is a supportive home environment.  Following detox and withdrawal, the client will participate in the following therapeutic activities:

  • Individual talk therapy.  These one-on-one sessions with a professional psychologist help to examine the various factors that can be contributing to the addiction to alcohol.  These might include past traumas, deep-seated emotional pain from childhood experiences, grief and loss, dysfunction in the family, marital problems, or financial stress.  It is important to delve into these causal factors to be able to heal and move forward in recovery
  • Group counseling.  Group sessions provide an opportunity for peer interactions that are facilitated by a counselor.  The counselor will introduce a topic and the group can exchange thoughts, experiences, advice, and even gentle criticism in a safe, supportive environment.  These group interactions foster personal growth and important insights about their behaviors, choices, and thought processes.
  • Addiction education and relapse prevention.  Help for alcoholism includes teaching clients the physiological and neurological elements of how addiction works in the brain.  Knowledge of how the brain’s reward system works and adapts to the alcohol helps change destructive behaviors.  Relapse prevention is essential to a successful recovery.  Identifying triggers—situations, people, places, and things—that lead to the compulsive behavior to drink is intrinsic to an effective relapse prevention plan.
  • Participation in a recovery support group.  Clients are encouraged to actively participate, versus just showing up to fulfill an obligation, in a 12-step or non 12-step recovery support group.  These groups provide an additional layer of support and accountability in recovery, and foster new sober friendships.
  • Experiential therapies.  Mindfulness, yoga, art therapy, and other experiential adjunct therapies enhance personal growth and enlightenment, which deepens their understanding of self.  These insights can lead to psychological breakthroughs in addiction treatment.

Addiction Therapeutic Services Provides Compassionate Help for Alcoholism

Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) is an outpatient recovery program based in Rancho Mirage, California.  This program is unique in its blending of authentic compassion for those who suffer from AUD with evidence-based treatment program elements.  Clients are assigned a customized treatment plan created uniquely for them, as ATS firmly believes that in addiction treatment, one size does not fit all.  

Their outpatient program offers help for alcoholism that is designed to heal all aspects of the individual, mind, body, and soul.  Family counseling, life skills, anger management, art therapy and psychodrama, mindfulness training, and spiritual care round out this highly effective program.  Reach out to our compassionate staff today at (760) 349-7007.

DUI Rehab Instead of Jail

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The Benefits of DUI Rehab Instead of Jail

So, you were driving and got pulled over and now you have a DUI. The fear of getting a DUI no doubt has your mind running to all the different possibilities.  Don’t be overwhelmed. Many have been here before. You may be asking yourself am I going to go to jail? How much is this going to cost me? What about my job? Can I go to rehab instead of jail?.  Becoming familiar with  your local DUI laws is a good place to start. You will want to get a good idea of what your local  “mandatory minimum sentences” and  sentencing requirements are. Local laws differ drastically especially by state. Some states, California for example, institutes separate punishments and requirements by both the local court and the DMV.

Understanding the Severity of a DUI

It is important to take in to account the severity of the DUI. Severity of charges can depend on, level of intoxication, if a controlled substance was involved, if there was a prescription for the substance, prior arrest history, if anyone was injured or any property was damaged, and many other factors. Judges typically look at a number of factors when deciding a sentence.  Judges are tasked with protecting the general public,and assuring that those that violate the law are penalized for criminal offences. Put yourself in the judge’s shoes and look at two cases. Case 1:  Person 1 gets arrested for DUI. Person 1 denies having a problem with substance abuse and does not attend treatment of any kind. Person 1 proceeds through the common procedure and waits to see the judge.   If you were the judge, considering that protection of the public is one of your main focuses what would you think? Perhaps this person is in denial of their substance abuse problem. Perhaps this person isn’t even aware that they might have a problem with substances.  Or perhaps this person doesn’t respect the law. Either way the judge is more likely to send person 1 to jail to consider these questions. It’s an “open and shut case”. Let’s look at person 2. Person 2 was arrested for a DUI. Person 2 contacts a local Rehab. Person 2 is actively attending rehab and has a letter from the facility showing that they are working on themselves. Person 2 is showing the judge that there was a problem, but they are being proactive toward making sure it doesn’t happen again. Person 2 is already working to resolve the problem before they even meet the judge.  Person 2 is more likely to address their DUI Rehab Instead of jail.  Judges and prosecutors want to see people making an attempt to correct their mistake. Otherwise, it is their job to punish those people in an attempt to “right the wrong”.

Looking at the DUI as a problem is easy to do. Getting a DUI is a disruption to your many areas of your life including, legal, financial, personal relationships. Focusing on the negative will only cause more stress and anxiety.  A better way to look at your DUI is an opportunity for growth. Take some time to look at your life and work on yourself.  Going to Rehab instead of jail can be a blessing in disguise.

A DUI Client Shares Their Experience

One rehab client shares their story. “I was just trying to get home and I saw the flashing red and blue lights behind me. I could instantly feel the knot in my stomach well up and the cold sweat on my face. I remember the panic thinking that I had never been arrested before. I did some occasional drinking but I didn’t think I was out of control. I thought I was okay to drive and I hadn’t hurt anyone. Things started to get worse as I focused on all the things I could have done different, different streets I could have taken, waiting till later to drive, what would happen to me if I went to jail.  I talked to my attorney and he recommended that I look at a local rehab. I really didn’t think I had a problem but figured what’s the worst thing that could happen if I just did it. I talked to the rehab and they told me about outpatient treatment. They told me that I could come during the day or night for a few hours a day instead of being locked up. Obviously, I didn’t want to go to jail and figured I would try this out. The staff at the rehab helped me through every step of the process and worked with my attorney. I ended up getting a “ wet reckless” instead of a DUI and learned about myself along the way. I went to DUI Rehab instead of jail”

DUI Rehab Instead of Jail Can Help

Seeing the flashing red and blue lights behind you is only a small part of the problem.  While a fair portion of people who get a DUI are “unlucky” most have underlying problems. In 2014, 10.1 million people reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs.  The Average number of people arrested annually for drunk driving is 1,500,000. Substance abuse clinicians overwhelmingly agree that a DUI arrest is a strong indicator that treatment may be needed.

Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) Works with DUI Clients

If you or a loved one has been pulled over for a DUI, whether it was your first offense, second, or more, we can help. Our clinical team provides in depth substance abuse evaluations, outpatient treatment and therapy, and recommendations for treatment. Call our Admissions Team to learn more about the benefits of DUI Rehab Instead of Jail and for a free and confidential assessment at 760-349-7007.

The Importance of an Effective Addiction Therapist

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The Benefits of an Addiction Therapist in The Treatment Process

Addiction counselors hold an intrinsic and essential role in the treatment team of a drug and alcohol rehab program. Without the help of an addiction therapist, treatment would only touch the superficial aspects of the substance use disorder, those things you can see with your eyes. In order to delve into the possible drivers of the addictive behaviors, targeted psychotherapy along with group therapy help identify causal factors—such as trauma, mental health disorders, grief and loss, for example—that can be parsed out and treated.

The important skills of an addiction therapist Los Angeles are powerful tools that can help show the individual struggling with substance abuse and addiction how the painful deep-seated issues can be resolved. Offering someone a new way of thinking about and responding to certain triggers that have held power over their subsequent behaviors is one of the most effective skills therapists provide for a successful recovery.

Psychological and Social Factors Addressed by Addiction Therapist

The most challenging aspect of addiction therapy is not getting the person off drugs and/or alcohol, but the identify and make productive changes in the factors that threaten recovery. Many who battle addictions have used the substance to soothe emotional discomforts caused by psychological and social factors. These root causes, which contribute to subsequent compulsive substance use, must be addressed and treated if therapy is to be successful.

An effective addiction therapist understands how stress, difficult relationships, social influences, and emotional strife can quickly undo the efforts to become sober and lead to relapse. Arming their patients with new coping skills and interpersonal tools is key to a sustained recovery.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Addiction Therapists

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term and highly effective therapy that is used widely in addiction treatment. A CBT therapist will meet one-on-one with the client to guide them through the process of identifying the thoughts, moods, and situations that can result in them using a substance as a coping mechanism. Once the root triggers of the using behavior are examined, the therapist will show the client how to change the thought and behavior patterns towards positive, productive ones.

CBT skills, once adopted and practiced, can assist the individual for a lifetime, not only in avoiding drugs and alcohol but also useful in situations that may come up in other areas of life. With CBT tools, instead of a substance being the reflexive response to a difficult person or dilemma, rational, healthy responses will be. CBT coping skills also help build a strong relapse prevention blueprint.

The Roles of Group Therapy and Family Therapy in Addiction Treatment

Addiction therapists serve in many capacities in addition to individual counseling. Group therapy and family therapy are two very effective therapeutic settings that allow the therapist to observe the client’s social dynamics and communication style. During group sessions, peers discuss a topic presented by the therapist, who will guide and moderate the discussion. The peer session is important in early recovery, providing both social support and fraternal correction when needed.

Family relationships can be a primary source of both loving support and serious challenges. A family therapist can identify dysfunctional behaviors among family members and help make productive changes, especially with regard to communication techniques. Helping the family restore trust with the addicted family member is a vital role of the family therapist, which involves making amends and steps that demonstrate trustworthiness.

Addiction Therapeutic Services Provides Effective Addiction Therapists in Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Cathedral City

Addiction Therapeutic Services is an intensive outpatient program located in Rancho Mirage, California. ATS provides CBT, an evidence-based therapy that helps clients change their disordered thoughts and behaviors that fuel addictive behaviors, replacing them with new, healthy responses. ATS clinical team includes master level therapists, a physician, and licensed counselors to help guide you or your loved one to a healthy, productive life. For more information about our program, contact ATS Admissions today at (760) 349-7007.

Intensive Outpatient Program for Addiction Serving The Coachella Valley

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Intensive Outpatient Program for Drug and Alcohol Addiction

One of the biggest deterrents to obtaining the help needed for a drug or alcohol problem is the idea that you will have to leave your home and job for an extended period of time.  Most people simply cannot take a long leave from their daily obligations, so they mistakenly believe that treatment is not an option for them.

Not true!  An excellent alternative to an inpatient or residential treatment program is the intensive outpatient program (IOP).  The IOP offers many of the same treatment services of an inpatient program but with the flexibility needed to continue to work and take care of family responsibilities while going through treatment.  Because the IOP allows you to reside at home, the costs are much lower than an inpatient program.

What is an Intensive Outpatient Program?

An IOP provides essential treatment services for the treatment of drug and alcohol abuse or addictions.  A comprehensive clinical assessment is the first step of the IOP journey.  This is the process that gathers important information regarding the substance use disorder—length, severity, and type of drug—as well as psychological and general health status.

The admissions coordinator reviews the information and will determine if you are a candidate for the IOP, or if inpatient care would be a better treatment fit.  If detox is needed, a referral to a detox facility or coordinating an at-home detox is arranged.  The individual must be completely free from the substance of abuse before beginning treatment.

A treatment plan will be created that is customized for your specific treatment needs, with benchmarks that will determine the course of treatment.  An IOP may start off requiring 20 or 25 hours of participation and treatment per week, but then step down as the benchmarks are reached and a lesser degree of participation is needed.  Case management is updated and refined as treatment progresses.

IOPs typically require the individual to attend a weekly individual therapy session where a deeper exploration of possible past traumas or other sensitive issues related to the development of a substance use disorder.  In addition, participation in a 12-step or non 12-step recovery group is usually mandatory.

IOP Core and Enhanced Treatment Services

There is a standard for essential core services that an IOP provides.  The bulk of the core services pertain to group counseling sessions, a variety of topics and types of groups that include:

  • Psychoeducational groups that promote life skills, relapse prevention planning, ongoing addiction education, peer support groups, and stress management.
  • Interpersonal process groups that involve issues that are of a sensitive nature, such as gender issues, criminal histories, and past traumas.
  • Family Program and groups that encourage family members to hash out past resentments, to rebuild trust, understanding co-dependency, and to learn new effective communication skills within the family.

Enhanced treatment services are what differentiate the various IOPs.  These enhanced services might include holistic therapies, recreational activities, music/dance/art therapies, meditation and yoga, transportation services, and job skills programs.

Effectiveness of Intensive Outpatient Program

A recent study published in the APA’s Psychiatry Online offered sound evidence of the effectiveness of the IOP as a treatment option.  This meta-study culled results from 12 different studies published between 1995 and 2012 to determine just how well the outpatient model performs in the recovery milieu.

In analyzing the data, the authors found that outpatient treatment programs offer the same degree of effectiveness as inpatient programs for most individuals.  Citing comparable outcomes between the IOP and an inpatient rehab, the authors reinforce the viability of choosing an IOP for effective addiction treatment.

Addiction Therapeutic Services (ATS) Intensive Outpatient Program

Addiction Therapeutic Services is an Addiction IOP located in Rancho Mirage in the Coachella Valley. The IOP serves adults and teens in local cities including Palm Desert, Cathedral City, Palm Springs, Indio, La Quinta, Indian Wells, and other local cities.  ATS IOP provides a high level of treatment while allowing clients to rebuild their lives while they are receiving treatment.  For those who feel they would benefit even further by residing in sober housing while receiving treatment, ATS also offers sober living resources.  For more information about the program, please contact Addiction Therapeutic Services today at (760) 349-7007