Addiction Recovery Support
Santa Barbara
I have worked in the addiction recovery field since 2003 and have supported hundreds of patients in acute detox and through their long-term recovery. I am passionate about this aspect of my work and feel that the modalities I use are incredibly beneficial in giving a leg up to those trapped in the cycle of addiction.
I use a combination of the NADA (National Acupuncture and Detoxification Association) protocol, addiction acupuncture from China, amino acid therapy and nutritional support to successfully help patients recover from dependency to addictive substances and behaviors. The necessary addition of these supportive therapies is becoming widely accepted in the recovery community as program success rates dramatically increase with their use.
The NADA detox acupuncture protocol was researched and developed by Dr. Michael Smith at Lincoln Hospital in New York. Thousands of treatment centers around the world now use this acupuncture protocol because if its effectiveness and simplicity. It consists of five acupuncture points on the ear that calm the nervous system and reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while stimulating hormone and neurotransmitter production.
I prescribe free form amino acids to rebalance the biochemistry in the brain quickly and safely. Stress, addictive substances and poor diet deplete the brain of critical neurotransmitters leading to many debilitating effects including depression, anxiety and cravings.
I have studied amino acid therapy with Julia Ross, the author of “The Mood Cure”. As the director of Recovery Solutions in Mill Valley, she has researched the effects of amino acid supplements on the brain recovering from addictive substances, as well as from other causes of neurotransmitter deficiency. Amino acid therapy is effective in treating addiction to substances and behaviors such as prescription and illicit drugs, gambling, bulimia, over eating as well as stress induced mood disorders.
My extensive experience in treating people in recovery from addiction has convinced me that a strong recovery plan needs to include these vital supplements. When prescribed and taken appropriately, amino acids can relieve much of the mental and physical suffering associated with both acute and long-term recovery. Amino acid supplements are affordable, safe and need only be taken until the neurotransmitter imbalances are corrected.
While it is important for patients to be involved in counseling or group support through recovery, acupuncture, amino acid therapy and nutritional support are an integral part of a successful recovery program and can be the difference between sobriety and relapse.