Addiction

Addiction ruins lives, no question about it. People who become addicted to substances, gambling, sex, online games or browsing lose sight of the rest of their lives. That loss becomes a reason to turn to addiction, depression becomes a reason to turn to addiction, anxiety becomes a reason to turn to addiction, grief becomes a reason to turn to addiction, and lifestyle patterns that support the addiction reinforce the issue. Addiction issues are treatable. The changes in the brain can be changed again and lifestyle can improve. It is hard work, but with support and dedication people can and have reclaimed their lives.

My approach to treatment is multifaceted. Often issues like depression need to be treated while we also work on the addiction issues. Depending on the severity of the addiction or co-occurring issues we might want to work with a doctor or nurse practitioner to find medication that will help. I encourage family to be involved and statistics show that the results are often better when the family system is involved in treatment. I approach the problem with a team oriented concept. If possible I will work with your prescriber, doctor, school, and my own supervisors and colleagues to provide the best insight and support I can for my clients.

My qualifications. I hold a masters degree is cognitive behavioral psychology/counseling from Pacific University. I am a certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have worked in several settings treating dual diagnosis teens as a counselor and consultant. Some of the treatment centers I have worked with are: Providence hospital, Morrison Child and Family Services, and Albertina Ker. I currently work on call as an child and adolescent addictions consultant and therapist at Providence Hospital with the inpatient psychiatric unit.