Risk Factors for Co-occurring Disorders
Content reviewed by Nicholas G. Glines A co-occurring disorder, also known as dual-diagnosis, describes the presence of two or more conditions that occur simultaneously. Typically, co-occurring disorders refer to the presence of one mental health disorder and one substance use disorder (SUD), such as addiction. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that nearly […]
The Long-Term Consequences of Cocaine Use
The Long-Term Consequences of Cocaine Use Content reviewed by Karen Rubenstein, LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer at Cliffside Malibu Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug. Due to its high abuse potential, it is classified as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Still, it has an accepted medical use for medical […]
What Is Experiential Therapy?
Updated on 07/03/23 Content Reviewed by Cameron Bolish, M.Ed., CEO of PaRC There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for substance use disorders and addiction. While it is great that many people find recovery success in traditional Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or 12-Step programs, there are still a handful of people that have not. Luckily, there are a […]
The Benefits of Experiential Therapies in Recovery
Updated on 04/09/24 Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC For many people seeking treatment and recovery from mental health or substance use disorders, the idea of talking one-on-one with a therapist often seems intimidating. Most people assume that treatment consists solely of traditional psychotherapy, or “talk therapy,” sessions. While psychotherapy is a primal element […]
Understanding the Stages Of Change
Understanding the Stages Of Change Updated on 06/04/24 Content reviewed by Karen Rubenstein, LMFT Change can be overwhelming as it often requires a person to venture into uncharted territory. It is essential to recognize that making a lifestyle change is not a linear process. It is not always as simple as cutting out unhealthy behaviors […]
The Long-Term Consequences of Stimulant Use
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Stimulants are an umbrella term for drugs that speed up the body’s internal systems, especially activity related to the central nervous system. Often referred to as “uppers,” stimulant drugs are widely used for various reasons including, but not limited to, performance enhancement, medical benefits and […]
What Are Triggers and Cravings?
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Treatment for recovery from alcohol and other substances must be intentional. It must teach patients how to achieve long-lasting sobriety. While a person may be able to commit to sobriety on their own initially, it is unlikely that they will be able to maintain their […]
Passive vs. Active Recovery: Which Path Are You Taking?
Updated 4/28/25 Content reviewed by Karen Rubenstein , LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer at Cliffside Malibu It is not uncommon for people to group all types of recovery into the all-encompassing phrases “addiction recovery” or “substance use recovery.” Despite committing your life to recovery, there are different levels of engagement that you can have with your […]
Defining Co-Occurring Conditions
Updated on 02/19/24 Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC Co-occurring disorders refer to the presence of both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. Mental health disorders can be a contributing factor to the development of substance use disorders. Risk factors for developing these disorders overlap, including environmental and genetic factors. Effective […]
The Hidden Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse
The Hidden Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse Content reviewed by Karen Rubenstein, LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer at Cliffside Malibu. Prescription drug abuse and misuse have been on the rise for the last several years. Despite many prescription medications having numerous beneficial effects for health concerns, they also have the potential to produce dangerous side effects, […]