The Recovery Process
The important thing is this: to be able, at any moment, to sacrifice what we are for what we could become. | Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
At present there is no “quick fix” for impulse disorders and addictions. However, if an individual commits to treatment they can recover their psychological and emotional health, experience freedom from their compulsive behaviors, and learn to get needs met in more healthy ways. They can create a meaningful life, and deeper, richer intimacy with themselves and others, while also making positive contributions from their experiences and hard-earned wisdom to our collective community.
Below are the stages of the recovery process that we provide. Please refer to the pages to the right for specific information about a particular issue.
- Stage One: Assessment
These sessions are attended by the patient and perhaps significant others. Immediate concerns are addressed, personal and social history is taken, and psychological testing is administered. The assessment is performed in order to diagnose and create a comprehensive treatment plan for the patient. Additionally, forensic contacts with attorneys or probation officers may be needed. Orientation to the program is provided.
Stage Two: Psycho-education
Sixteen weekly group sessions along with individual therapy sessions provide information about the presenting impulse disorder(s), confront participants in order to break down denial, teach them how to manage impulses, cognitive distortions and identify feelings before they lead to their impulsive behaviors and help participants develop alternative behaviors. In addition to accumulating valuable knowledge and skills, this stage provides a safe place to explore and learn about issues related to the behaviors and how to replace these behaviors with healthier, more deeply fulfilling ones.
Stage Three: Ongoing Treatment
Based on the needs of the individual patient, one or more of the following therapies is typically indicated:
Ongoing Individual Therapy: To increase self-awareness, deal with related issues (co-morbid conditions) and continue to build on the progress made, moving towards a more satisfying life overall.
Ongoing Group Therapy: To continue to receive support and feedback from other recovering individuals in a therapeutic environment and to learn to maintain gains in the face of new stressors/avoid relapse.
Complimentary Therapies: Psychotherapy is the foundation of our treatment program. However, in addition to psychotherapy there is a growing body of evidence that other forms of treatment can also be helpful in treating the issues we address:
- Meditation
- Psychotropic Medication
- Yoga Asanas and other forms of exercise
- Bodywork
- Dietary Considerations
- Occupational Therapy:To create a structure and daily plan to improve work life and everyday functioning.
- Self-help Groups (such as 12-step programs) for additional support
- Educational Specialists