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Neurogenesis and Addiction Treatment

Many perspectives try to explain addiction. One such perspective views addiction as fundamentally an impulse control disorder. While a bit of an oversimplification, the view argues that there comes a moment, usually as a craving climaxes, that someone decides whether or not to use, whether to drink or to abstain. The perspective contends that long-term …

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Equine Therapy

Horses have long been deeply loved by humans.  For centuries, horses have been friends and companions to mankind.  Connecting with these majestic animals has provided peace, comfort and joy for many.   Equine Therapy utilizes this unique bond between humans and horses to help those participating learn more about themselves.  This is because horses are …

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Opposite Action

Often in recovery we have strong motivations and desires to do what we think we need to do. We are taught early on that often our desires and wants, what we believe is best for us, may not be what is best for us. This is an example of “The Will”. As we learn about …

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Nikki Sixx: Take it from a recovering addict, a lot more could be done to end the opioid crisis - LA Times

Heroin is an increasing problem and a very dangerous addiction.  The following is an except from a real-life story of addiction and help to recovery: “Heroin nearly killed me. As a matter of fact, it did: For two minutes in 1987 I was pronounced clinically dead from an overdose. I was at the Franklin Plaza …

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Early Recovery: Making New Friends

All your friends were once strangers.  A slightly intimidating dynamic can come into your life in early recovery: Making new friends.  In our work with residents at the AToN center we highly encourage participation in community based recovery groups.  The can be 12-step, SMART recovery or any of the various available alternatives.  Spending time in rooms …

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DBT stands for Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DBT stands for Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and it developed as an offshoot from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It was originally created for people who were suicidal and diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, but since then it has been found to be helpful for many other issues – including substance use and addiction. A DBT therapist …

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Gaining Back Trust

In active addiction, people tend to severely damage the trust in relationships with friends and family. Lying, manipulating, and stealing are common behaviors of someone misusing substances. These behaviors can destroy the foundation upon which a healthy relationship is built. This can make rebuilding trust after getting into recovery a very difficult task. The following …

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Why It Can Actually be a Good Thing to be Triggered in Rehab

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Residential treatment can be a good reprieve from daily life. It takes you away from home, lifestyle, stressors, and other cues that are associated with drinking and using – called “triggers.” This allows people to heal and feel more in control of their lives. On the other hand, the point of residential treatment is not …

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