My Conversation with Doctor Raymond Griffin-the Forensic Addictionologist

Raymond Griffin is the President of the NCADD of Westchester County, an instructor at Mercy College, an addictionologist, therapist and radio talk show personality on WVOX 1460 AM Radio (2nd/3rd Monday of every month). He is pictured above with baseball great, Darryl Strawberry at the recent Marty Mann Benefit Dinner. Darryl was one of many key note speakers of the evening. The fundraiser dinner benefited the organization's goal of educating the public to fight the stigma surrounding the disease of alcoholism and other drug addictions and supporting its program and services.

What is your title?

I am an Forensic addictionologist.

Is there a particular school of thought that you aspire to?

More Rogerian…

What’s that?

Carl Roger’s school of thought. It’s a school of thought that’s behavioral as compared to analytical.

Why behavioral?

I believe that cognitive behavioral therapy CBT has the most efficacy in a therapy modality.

Why did you go this route?

Because I’ve always felt "analysis is paralysis" and what helps change…what helps people move from where they are to where they want to be is through the process of behavioral changes that leads to a more enlightened/improved thinking.

What kind of practice do you have?

My practice is split in two. Half of my practice is treating impaired health professionals and the other is forensics…I’m also a forensics addictionologist.

What’s that?

I do evaluations for the courts…to assist the courts to understand if that person has an addiction or not and making recommendations.

How do you go about detecting this illness?

Well, …through drug testing and hair testing to empirically determine whether that person has used drugs or not…the second way is through face to face interviews and the use of questionnaires/screening instruments and the third is collateral contact -by speaking with people that know that person well.

What is your biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge is helping the health care professionals and breaking through the MDiety (the notion that they are god and they don’t need help).

How do you go about overcoming this obstacle?

Group therapy is the most effective tool for the doctor to be in with other doctors to help them understand they have an illness.

What made you decide to do this?

I’ve always had a fascination with human behavior and since elementary school people always came to me with their problems….so it seemed the logical choice.

How did this make you feel as a kid?

Um…it was a good feeling to know that people trusted me and that maybe just maybe you could be helpful to them.

How many years in the field ?

Thirty-one.

Are you still taking classes?

Always.

Why?

You always need to take continuing education to stay current and I do at least six hours of professional reading a week and I teach at Mercy college for the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency's CASAC Program…I also taught at the graduate program at Fordham for six years and I lecture nationally at conferences and I am the president of NCADD of Westchester.

As the president of that organization, what are your duties?

To facilitate the promotion of the councils’ mission which is to eradicate the stigma of addition.

What are current statistics on the severity of this problem?

Do you mean how many people are addicted? About 12% are afflicted…it’s the number one killer in America.

What are the underlying causes?

Addiction is primary…

What does that mean?

Progressive, chronic and if not treated a fatal disease. The main contributing factor is genetics.

Is there a shot or a pill?

Unfortunately, not yet…they are working on a genetic marker associated with the Gnome Project (5years ago, two scientists were finally able to map the DNA of the Human Body) so if we find the genetic marker…we’ll be much closer to finding the cure….but currently the best thing we can do is remission of the disease.

Which is?

Refraining from abusing substances.

What is your thoughts on medication?

When appropriate, it’s needed. The big trend we’ve seen in addiction is more people suffering from co-occurring disorders- which is someone who suffers from addiction and another illness such as depression. Such a person may benefit from medication…the medicine I would prescribe would be non addictive medications.

What are some of the rewards you’ve had from working in the field?

It’s to see so many people that through their own efforts and hard work have turned their life around from a dysfunctional addict to a thriving, productive human being.

Questions and Answers with an Asthma Specialist

Phil is a do-it-all woman-Mother, Wife, Caretaker, Respiratory Specialist, Now Doc Executive, World Traveler, Sister, Aunt, Daughter, and one of the best female golfers in the world. I got a rare free moment with her as she multitasked: caring for her mother, hanging out with her son and preparing for work the next day.

How long have you worked in the heath care profession?

Pretty much all my working life, since I was twenty years old...I began working with the Civil Service for a short period after high school and quickly decided that just wasn’t for me. I then applied to nursing school in Drogheda, County Louth.

How long did that take?

Give or take four years of nursing school which I thoroughly enjoyed, great years! The caring profession has always been a challenging field however; I always had a passion for it and therefore, it seems to come natural to me.

Was there a core curriculum?

Initially, it would have been general nurses...later I majored in Respiratory Care. This was an easy choice for me, many of my relatives; father and niece included suffered from the negative effects of asthma. Subjects such as math, physic, science, and chemistry were required before nursing courses could be taken. I’m sure things have changed since then...this is many years ago.

How long has you been working as a Respiratory Specialist?

Close to ten years. I recently earned a degree NUI in Galway, Ireland. I hold diplomas in COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), NIV (Non-Invasive Ventilation), OSA (Obstructed Sleep Apnoea) and Asthma.

What has stayed the same in the field of nursing and where would you see the biggest change?

In the last thirty years there have been dramatic changes, not much has stayed the same. These changes have been for the better. ..for example cancer care has improved...nobody needs to die in pain anymore,,,that was very common when I first began. End of life issues can be demanding. ..what I mean is, to achieve a balance between dying with dignity and preserving the sanctity of life itself.

I never heard of Obstructed Sleep Apnoea.

It’s actually quite common, a lot of the time, people complained about snoring, feeling fatigued, and poor concentration. By monitoring them overnight, I can quickly assess and determine if they are positive.

What is the treatment?

Depending on the cause....for example if they are overweight, I would refer or recommend them a dietician and generally they would need a CPap, a device that delivers a controlled, positive air pressure to maintain an open airway...

You are much diversified!

Yes, I am also involved in Primary Care as a Nurse Manager in the out of hours GP service, called ‘Now Doc’ located in Carrick-on-Shannon, Ireland.

What services do you provide at ‘Now Doc’?

It’s a telephone advice triage system. The nurse receiving the call decides if the client requires a home visit, centre visit, or ambulance....or, simply self-assisted care.

Do you experience any trends when you are on call?

That depends on a variety of factors: viruses in the air, the flu-which is contagious, or tummy bugs...

What do you believe is a more effective approach to the treatment of disease: Chinese or Western?

I feel that each has its place...but I would always encourage each individual to take it upon themselves to take on a healthy attitude to life. Eating right and getting enough exercise are key...I cannot stress this enough...stay off the cigarettes and curtail your alcohol intake.

Do you think natural herbs and remedies are better for the body compared to contemporary medicines?

Yes...and I do think the body has a great potential to heal itself, all we need to do is be kind to it and listen to what it’s telling us. There are many flowers out there that can help with ailments such as fluid retention or inflammatory diseases...I hope eventually we will begin to appreciate and acknowledge the many cures nature provides again....

It’s obvious you are one to take your own advice there.

Thank you...I do like to stay active. I try to go for a game of golf once a week, I’m off chocolate and wine for Lent at the moment...

Oh my god, what’s left?

Um...anyway, when I can’t golf, I catch a few minutes at the local gym. I love to swim and whenever I can I try to take country walks instead of always driving. Simply things are always beneficial too, the stairs instead of elevators....

While we are on the subject, is exercise considered a preventative measure for asthma?

Yes, exercise is beneficial, if your asthma is not exercise induced, it’s important for people to be aware of their breathing and how breathing techniques can improve asthma symptoms.

What about diet?

Again, a healthy, well-balanced diet, avoidance of any known food triggers (fish, nuts, etc.) and eating in moderation and keeping a healthy weight.

What is your favourite pastime?

That would have to be golf. I took a few lessons and fell in love with the game. It has become a big part of my social life. I love the fresh air, the competiveness and meeting up with my close friends. I have been a serious player for many years and my team, The Ladies Golf Club of Carrick-on-Shannon and I earned an All Ireland Final in 2003 and many local competitions...the interclub ILGU competitions are always fun, trying to get the better of our neighbouring clubs.

What countries have you visited?

My husband, son John and I are world-travellers...we try to see something new every year. Before the birth of my son, my husband and I took a tour of Italy and Israel , Cyprus, Amsterdam, Holland...these places are the only four places he has yet to see. As a family, we’ve been to the United States on several occasions to visit my family there (Massachusetts, Maine, Florida, Georgia, and of course New York...Buffalo, Westchester, New York City, etc). In Europe, Livigno, Italy (for various ski outings), Paris, France (twice), Majorca, Spain, The Canary Islands, Oslo, Norway (for our close friends’ wedding), Portugal, London and Manchester, England (to see my husband and sons’ favourite team, Manchester United!

What was your favourite destination?

I’ve enjoyed every place I’ve travelled really...my son’s favourite places are Massachusetts and Italy. Italy for the snow/skiing and Massachusetts where cousin Kevin lives.

Interview with a Medical Assistant in Upper West

My friend Joe agreed to an interview today, he is a medical assistant on the West Side and knows a thing or two about proper diet and foods that are crucial for ones' health.

What do you do?

I am a medical assistant. I schedule appointments for patients, keep track of inventory for vitamins, nutritional supplements, office supplies and I do occasional procedures with patients.

Hmmm, what kind of procedures?

Such as muscle testing for food allergies…take blood from their finger to figure out liver function, bacteria, digestion, immune system, allergies, etc.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I like to do the food testing. It’s interesting to see what kinds of foods people are sensitive to.

Aside from drawing blood, what are some other ways you can detect (food) allergies?

People bring in samples of foods they eat.

Why?

Everything has its own energy signature…if you’re exposed to this energy…

Exposed? You mean you can tell just by exposing it? How does that work?

Your body doesn’t have to consume it in your body, example if a person has a severe allergy to nuts...by just putting it in their hand I can see this.

Ever misdiagnosed anyone?

It’s entirely possible but the more you do, the more sensitive you are to changes, it’s not brain surgery.

What are most people allergic to?

People are usually sensitive to foods they have too much of actually.

What’s bad to have too much of? I guess anything of too much is bad, they say, ‘everything in moderation.’

Sugar is ALWAYS bad, but many people also have a sensitively to dairy where they may be sensitive to cheddar cheese but not to Swiss—there’s a difference within categories and it’s also how food is processed…one could be sensitive to rice, but not rice milk.

That’s crazy! Bet it gets complicated because everyone has a different situation and what works for one may not work for the other.

Exactly. I really like these discoveries; whether it’s too much of something or if they’re trying something new, I like that part of it.

What part do you not really like?

It’s when I’m waiting for my boss to decide what the diagnosis is, he just spent all this time with someone and now he’s has to make the decision, and sometimes I get restless, I don’t really know why…

A lot of satisfied customers?

Can be life changing for some. Sometimes people get really sick and don’t even realize it’s because of the food they are eating. Our customers get results, vitamins, supplements…

Any supplements or vitamins you would recommend to anyone?

Yeah, but you know medically people are quick to find fault with vitamins…

I know! It’s crazy…I don’t understand our society.

Their standards (for this type of treatment) aren’t very fair…anyway, most people are deficient in one type of nutritional supplement; therefore, it never hurts for people to get a good multi.

I see, going to go load up on vitamins. I’ve been told by a few people now to do vitamins—this time, I’m convinced!

My Visit to NYC's Exclusive QRC Practioner

My friend Jen convinced me to pay a visit to a QRA Practitioner. She recently got a body scan and found out what was really wrong with her. She has since closely followed Irene's suggestions and has gained her health back. She looks amazing. Recently, when she became frustrated when a vet told her they needed to operate on the dog, she took her dog to see Irene. Now? The dog is fine. I was curious to learn more and made an appointment the next day...

What do you do?

I am a licensed body scanner practioner…

A what?

I use a state of the art, Nasa built/created machine to “scan” the entire body.

How does it work?

The machine scans the human body through electrical impulse and non-cognitive biofeedback… identifying the stress blueprint of the body. Bionetics testing devices basically collaborates with the body’s biological makeup, collecting electrical feedback information to determine energy imbalances at a sub clinical level.

What aspects of the body can the Body-Scan Analysis?

Bionetics Body Scan tests over 60 categories of imbalances in the body…from the functioning of organ systems, nutritional imbalances, toxins, allergies, viruses, parasites, amino acids, dental issues…

That’s crazy! Sounds very much like the new-age approach to medicine! I recently interviewed a student of Chinese medicine who said it’s more important to find the root and cause instead of just the problem and treat…

A scan of all the categories helps determine where there are underlying weaknesses and the possible causes invading the body.

Cool, I want to check this out, I’m having some pain and I am a little concerned. I don’t want to wait until there is a major problem. How long will this take?

Not long at all, the entire procedure takes only 25-30 minutes.

Will it hurt? I don’t like all those wires, I’m scared!

It is completely non-invasive. The results create a highly accurate picture of the body’s stress patterns in the digestion, glandular, neurological, structural, immune and organ systems of the body.

Then what?

The imbalances in the Stress Blueprint create the pathway for me to aid in your recovery and optimal wellness.

Okay! I’m ready, let’s do this, I forgot to ask, when was this machine created and how come I never knew about it before?

QRA is the result of more than 30 years intense research and development. It provides specific tools to precisely identify the hierarchy of the activities in the human body, even with the most difficult cases. It is an effective assessment tool that quickly unveils the core issues in organ/gland deficiency and weakened immune responses. There are so many natural remedies out there that help the body recover and regenerate that most people are unaware of.

How does doctors of Western medicine feel about such machines?

Well, not too happy...today, many scientists and natural doctors believe the secret of regeneration and healing lie not within costly medical drugs, or expensive medical treatments, but in the body's own Quantum energy Bio-field (QEB).

So, just 30 minutes and you'll have all this information? That's shocking.

Yes, and its results can help me support, nourish, detoxify and energize your body on many levels.

QRC Practioner: State of the Art Nasa Body Scanning Machine/Detector

DONA certified/trained Doula: Erin Hessel

I met Erin at Bryant Park one day while she was on a break from interning at a nearby fertility clinic. We got talking and when I asked her what she did I became interested to know more. Before this conversation, I had never heard the term, Doula...

What do you do?

I am currently a full time student, will eventually start my own Doula Service Practice. Right now, I'm studying, in my fourth year of traditional Chinese Medicine.

What's a Doula?

A Doula is an aid to the mother and father during child birth, there are two kinds (of Doulas): one for childbirth and one for post, some doulas do both. Typically my services provide physical, emotional and informational support for the mother during the child birth.

What a rewarding job, what is the typical rate?

The rate varies, I'm new, I'm getting started so my rates would be of the lower end around $350-$550, but a doula can get paid as high as $1,000.

What services would be included?

Several visits for various...one post, one to two prenatal visit/on call and the actual birth, which is the main role...

Ever experience any complications?

Not as a doula, not under my care, one time in my senior year, I assisted in a birth with another doctor and there was a slight complication but nothing serious.

Any misconceptions of a doula?

Yes, doula's work in home births but they also work at hospitals, which many people don't realize. Doulas can be really helpful in a hospital setting also...

Can you describe an experience with a home birth?

During one home birth in Costa Rica, I assisted in a birth with a midwife and the whole experience was so beautiful. I arrived about nine that night, she (the pregnant woman) was pacing, her partner was setting up a tube of hot water for her, the midwife and I massaged her neck, arms, etc.

Was there other people in the home?

Yes, but not right there but they were around...in the kitchen, living room, just chatting quietly. She delivered within 4-5 hours...

Sounds so relaxing! How did you and the midwife create the atmosphere/setting?

Low lighting, soft music, relaxed her with massage and herbs and other natural remedies and the baby came so peacefully without any complications and then the grandmother came in and had some food cooked, it was quite wonderful really.

Sounds like the way to go, I'm definitely more interested in this approach now, it seems to make a lot more sense, ever been a doula for a Manhattan mother?

Not yet, no, hopefully soon, actually, I have two pregnant friends who I may be assisting!

How wonderful, so, what inspired you to do this?

I think it's my philosophy...I have a passion for women's health care and how one comes into the world, not really the medical process, but the natural aspect of the birthing process...which can sometimes get overlooked in hospital settings.

What's most important to you in your assistance that you give?

It's really important the woman and/or couple attains the birth they want, did my doula training a year ago, I traveled the world while training also and I really look forward to starting up a practice myself.

That's really cool! So, how would one compare Chinese to what is it, Western Culture (medical care)?

(Laughing) That's it. Um, That's a good question...

Thanks!

(Laughing) Um...I think both is good, I like Western; it has its own paradigms, patterns, tools for diagnoses of/for treatment but with the Chinese method (for treatment) it looks at the body differently.

What do you mean exactly?

Looks for underlying cause and/or root, and then the aim becomes how to treat rather than mask...Western medicine is more about symptoms and treatment whereas Chinese medicine seeks to learn the root of the problem.

So, you appreciate both?

Well, yeah, their differences really compliment each other, wherever Chinese medicine lacks, Western makes up...both are great combined.

I think this is a silly question, would you say, you are more passionate about the Chinese methodology?

(laughing) I am more passionate yes...its how I think about life, birth, makes the most sense with my philosophy. I am not against Western medicine, this is just my tool, if I can help, then I will...I have a teacher who once told me, 'there's no super medicine and there's no super doctor,' I really like that philosophy.

Best time to contact a doula?

Anytime, however; doulas usually come into the scene during the second trimester to make a connection with the mother (communicate), make sure it's a good fit, then the scheduling of the due date...

What if the mother's due date isn't correct, what would you do then?

That has happened, one women had to have a last minute Cesarean but I was still there for her for the post care, I brought her in some food, herbs, massaged and supported her during the after care part of it.

Any other unique forms of healing you study?

In April I will do private practice acupuncture, Chinese herbal.

You would acupuncture any part of the body?

(Laughing) Yeah, the entire body, trained to treat many problems.

That sounds so difficult, I was never that great in Science, would you use acupuncture on a pregnant woman?

Absolutely, I want to focus on women's health/gynecology and combine that with Chinese methods: acupuncture, Chinese herbs...

Chinese herbs?

There are hundreds of herbs, hundreds of formulas, plants themselves, pills. The form of medical treatment is based on the form of the pathology. For example one woman could come in with terrible pain...cramps, I evaluate everything...examine her tongue, different pulses and treat her with a specific form of treatment to help her help her body heal itself, not just relieve itself of these symptoms.

That's interesting...

And it's different depending on the person. If another woman comes in with the same problem (cramps) she'll get a completely different treatment because her pathology is different.

That's the complete opposite of the Western approach, that seems to focus only one thing.

Exactly. Most people take a pill for cramps and the pain may go away but it doesn't fix the root of the problem and so the next month the pain will return...this method actually stops it from returning.

So is it fair to say that even though you are more passionate about Chinese medicine, you would include Western if needed?

Yes, once I graduate, I can combine...it's a big move now in this city, women have used acupuncture and Chinese herbs successfully in delivers.

Really, what have these methods done specifically?

One or both have been used to turn breach babies, reduce blood pressure, quicken the labor process, prevent Cesarean.

That's major! Which setting would you prefer to help a women deliver; hospital or home setting?

I actually prefer whatever the mother prefers, the more comfortable she is, her partner, the family, the easier everything goes...

What are some aspects to consider?

Looking at it not only from the family...but also the transition of the baby from dark into a bright environment, taking a moment-process for everything, how can we all three work together and make it an awesome experience for everyone, kind of what Chinese medicine does a little bit...whatever can be done. It depends on what the couple wants, some women want the doctor and lots of medicine, while another just wants candles burning, doesn't mean one is better than the other...it's about taking the steps to make it happen whatever it may look like, I can assist in every situation.

Little history on Doulas?

Been around a REALLY long time, the women in village (laughing), there's always been support people..then medicine came along and pushed the natural ways to the side.

Got rid of the doulas you mean?

A little, yeah, but it's coming back now, and midwives. Both are doing a lot more delivers now, people are considering it more of a necessary practice more and more now...

Seems to make a lot of sense, I'm so relieved natural medicines and practices are making a comeback!

Yes, I always encourage people to think about it (getting assistance with a doula) a lot of research on doulas with birth, Cesarean rates, interval rates of Western medicine...one misconception, a doula doesn't replace but equally supports. There's no emotional attachment but there is compassion and information to be provided objectively, which leave more room for family support...other research proves successful outcomes with mommy-baby attachment, family dynamics, the support is very good...

Any advice for current pregnancies?

Get a doula (laughing), Be good to yourself, stay true to that, kind of like in anything, depends on the situation, everything is different, different set of rules. For example if one pregnant woman believes drinking orange juice will help but I don't I'm not going to stop them, that's why the doctor is there...oh shoot! (looking at her cell), class just started, don't want to be late!

Thank you, I think I'm going to get a doula when I have a baby now, I want to be spoiled!

Erin Hessel is a DONA Trained Doula who is also licensed in Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, among other things, please feel free to contact her to set up a meeting time so you can have a peacful, happy and healthy birthing experience. Not pregnant? Then, treat a friend or family member! http://www.esemahealingarts.com

Addiction Specialist in the Treatment of Multiple Addictions

I met Mavis through a friend who recommended I speak with her. Mavis has treated many clients and has helped save many lives. As a therapist, she has provided and continues to provide her knowledge and understanding to those that need it most...

:What is your occupation?

Addiction Treatment Specialist, all and multiple. I am certified in the treatment of multiple addictions and the supervision of others who study and train.

:Explain.

Average statistics: Addicts have an average of three addictions. Traditional models of treatment only address substance abuse. Some people are lucky enough to only have to face the consequences of one addiction at a time so they can focus and get results with treating whichever addiction was causing the most consequences.

Those who aren’t so lucky?

Sometimes the secondary addiction may not progress till several years later. For example someone with fifteen years sobriety may then face a food addiction. Other people have multiple addictions that progress together and some even have what is now termed “addiction interaction disorder.”

What is that?

Someone who has food addiction and sex addiction (for example); when they’re sexually active they restrict their eating or vice versa.

Describe some kinds of addictions you treat?

Sex addiction, food, alcohol and drug addiction…also family member of addicts.

:When is the best situation for a client to seek your assistance?

I usually treat alcohol and drug addicts when they have already been sober for a period of time.

Why?

They’ve been to rehabilitation treatment first and if not then I may recommend them there and then they return to me after treatment.

Is there a difference of treatment of addictions?

The differences are in the details; the relationship you have with food can be different then the relationship you have with sex…

Do you think addiction is a common malady in society today?

There are many addictive pursuits that are popular in American culture: drinking, gambling, food, sex, tobacco. A lot of people seem to be able to indulge in these activities with no major harm done, with no story to tell. They go to Vegas for the weekend, loose an affordable amount of money, go home and it’s over for them. Or they have a birthday party and load up on carbohydrates, put everything away, and it’s over…they are able to throw out the leftovers, etc.

Oh god, I think I have a food addiction! I can never throw out anything and I eat until there’s nothing left in the fridge, always!

Every addict has a different story and they may not relate to all the symptoms they hear as examples.

How would one then know they have a problem/addiction?

The most common description is when one can’t reliably predict the outcome when they are using that substance or behavior. What we say in the business: they can’t reliably predict the outcome of any one using episode. They have lost control. Further, they are experiencing negative consequences as a result of their use and consequences keep adding up. The person may try to stop using or have periods of abstinence in their lives but the behavior keeps coming back over the years and keeps getting worse. They may need to treat a combination of these addictive interactions…

Why?

They fuse together or switch and feed into each other...

What is the best treatment for an addict?

Results shows the best outcomes come from a combination of addiction treatment in therapy and a twelve-step program.

Can only one of these treat successfully?

Depends on the person…it’s not always up to them: one may prefer one type of treatment over the other but it may not be right for them. The hardest thing about addiction treatment is people do not always like to do the things they must in order to get the help they need the most…but the positive results change their minds!

So, again, sorry for being repetitive but how can one successfully self diagnosis an addiction?

It’s an addiction when it’s self destructive, interferes with daily living…

I’m interested to know more about food addiction, I mean I really love food, compare the brain of a food addict, and is there a difference?

Mark Gold has done some very interesting studies and has found evidence of the development of additive pathways and chemical cascade that change the brain…Sarah Ullman is another researcher, Neuro-psychologist rather, she studies the brain or chemical make up of sex addicts…

What makes one more susceptible, are there triggers to developing an addiction?

Several genetic components along with these, the impact of early trauma and chronic dysfunctional systems are also factors…not necessarily causes.

What are the causes then?

The exact causes are still unknown…even when the trauma is treated or system is changed, addiction will remain.

Really?

Once fully developed…it has a life of its own.

For those living with a fully developed addiction, is there no hope, are they doomed?

No they are not doomed; there is hope if there is ongoing treatment-it works! Recovery works, addiction is a very treatable disease even though it is very powerful.

I’ve heard though, treatment only works for those who seek it, if one is in denial, there is usually no chance of recovery, would you agree?

No, I’ve worked to successfully treat wives of sex addicts, DUI offenders and other forms of ‘resistant’ populations.

What are examples of ‘a wake up call’ or as some like to term, ‘hitting bottom?’

It varies. Some people see the writing on the wall while others never face the fact of their addiction, most people experience resistance, most people never receive treatment and ‘white knuckle it’ or try to treat themselves, or switch addictions, or in the later stages of the illness, they just keep up with their maintenance dose…they’re too debilitated to do much else.

What sort of treatment can one expect in a rehabilitation center/facility seeking treatment there?

A combination between psychological, physiological, lecture, psychodrama demonstrations, group/individual therapies, recreational therapy and community process…

Can a non-addict benefit from a 12-Step Program?

Yes, families of alcoholics have benefited greatly from implementing a 12 Step Program into their daily lives, members of addicts that have been deeply affected by their loved ones condition because in effect, addiction affects them too! It turns out the ’12-Step Method’ addresses their recovery needs too…

I see, what about for other addictions such as food, gambling, etc?

These methods are a formula for a new way of life that successfully addresses and treats addictions in its many forms, including the forms it takes with its effects on loved ones and every addiction can benefit from the 12 Steps.

What about the non-addict and/or not affected, can their lives be improved by using these methods, and can it work for anyone?

Yes, it has even been useful for everyday problems…there is an actual book titled, the 12-Steps for Everyone!

I’ve heard some people refuse to join AA, they say even though it would help them, they are not religious and say AA is a religious sect/denomination, would you agree?

No, there is a common misconception, the difference between spirituality and religion is great. Our spirituality is our awareness of our beliefs, to our connections. A 12 Step Program leads people to find their own individual sense of meaning and purpose.

And getting sober and clean…

Getting sober demands coming to terms with ones’ need for caring about something other then getting high and escaping from life on life’s terms.

So once they’ve come to terms with that, they’re good to go?

This is only one of a handful of keys that is needed for lasting sobriety.

What do you get out of this? It must be very stressful at times being a therapist?

It takes a lot of courage and commitment for someone to face an addiction. I love being able to witness them in their process and to earn their trust as their guide. It is my privilege.
For more information: Go directly to Mavis’s website