What to Expect From Addiction Therapists in Denver
As Gabor Mate eloquently stated, "The attempt to escape from pain, is what creates more pain.” With his approach and research in mind, you can expect an empathetic and research driven approach from our team of addiction therapists.
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We believe that human connection, accountability and vulnerability paired with empirically backed modalities such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and more. (3) creates ultimate healing for addictive tendencies.
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We recognize that the field of addiction therapy is rapidly evolving and we pride ourselves on staying up to date on some of the latest treatments and modalities that treat addiction most effectively.
What is Addiction?
Addiction Therapists determine a diagnosis based on the DSM, a book with guidelines for interpreting behavior to see if it qualifies for a formal diagnosis. The DSM-V defines addiction as a behavior that creates "impaired control, physical dependence, social problems and risky use." The DSM continues to define addiction as when an individual uses "more of a substance than intended or using it for longer than you're meant to. Trying to cut down or stop using the substance but being unable to" is another common marker of addictive behavior." (1)
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Our team of addiction therapists are able to formally diagnose you if that feels helpful, but for those who are not concerned with a formal diagnosis, addiction can be considered any behavior that is overused as a coping mechanism for an undesirable feeling. This is popularly outlined in Gabor Mate's book, In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts.
The Men's Mental Wellness Center's addiction therapists base much of their work on Gabor's book as it sees addictive behavior in a humanistic and compassionate lens.
Let's Dig In:
Common Forms of Addiction
When you search for "addiction therapists near me", you will find a variety of addiction therapists. At The Men's Mental Wellness Center, we start by breaking it down into two categories: substance addiction and behavioral addiction. Both forms of addiction are treatable though the approach to working together may vary.
Substance Addiction
Common forms of substance addiction include alcohol addiction, drug addiction including cannabis, prescription pills, nicotine, etc and caffeine. When an individual consumes these substances, reward pathways of the brain are activated and dependency may result (2).
Behavioral (Non-Substance) Addiction
Common forms of behavioral addiction include pornography, work, eating, sex, gaming, engaging in risky behaviors and gambling. It is important to note that there is a high comorbidity rate with different types of addictions, meaning that if an individual struggles with one form of addiction, it is common for them to experience another form of addiction as well.
For example, a gambling addiction may often be observed with a drug addiction as it is easier to continue gambling when one is under the influence of a substance. This increases the complexity of treatment planning and is another reason why having an addiction therapist that specializes in treating addiction is important.
Alternatives to Talk Therapy for Addiction
Neurofeedback for addiction therapy in Denver is a powerful tool for creating long lasting changes in brainwave activity that may contribute to behavioral patterns associated with addiction.
If you are interested in regulating your nervous system, healing from previous trauma and prefer a modality that doesn't include much talking - neurofeedback run by an addiction therapist in Denver is for you!
Personalized Plans for Addiction Therapy in Denver
When you connect with an addiction therapist in Denver at the Men's Mental Wellness Center, you can expect a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you.
Our Addiction Therapists utilize a range of evidence-based practices, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and group therapy sessions. Each approach is aimed at addressing both the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction. By collaborating with your addiction therapist in Denver, you’ll set achievable goals that focus on long-term recovery, helping you to build resilience and a healthier lifestyle.
The Role of Family in Addiction Therapy in Denver
When seeking an addiction therapist in Denver, it's important to recognize the role that family dynamics can play in recovery.
Many therapists incorporate family therapy into their practice, understanding that addiction affects not just the individual but also their loved ones.
Family therapy sessions can help improve communication, rebuild trust, and foster a supportive environment that promotes healing.
By involving family members in the therapeutic process, you can work together to address relational issues and develop a collective commitment to recovery.
A Holistic Approach
to Healing
Our team of addiction therapists in Denver promote a holistic approach to healing including brain mapping therapy and neurofeedback therapy.
Brain Mapping Therapy for Addiction
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Brain mapping therapy is an innovative approach used to understand and treat addiction by providing a detailed view of brain activity and function. Run by addiction therapists in Denver, this technology is rapidly developing as a form of addiction therapy.
This technique employs electroencephalography (EEG) to create a personalized brain map that highlights areas of dysregulation associated with addictive behaviors. By identifying these patterns, therapists can tailor treatment plans that address specific neural pathways affected by addiction.
This personalized insight allows individuals to gain a better understanding of their impulses and cravings, leading to more effective strategies for managing their addiction and supporting their overall recovery journey.
Neurofeedback Therapy for Addiction
Neurofeedback therapy is a specialized form of biofeedback that trains individuals to regulate their brain activity in real-time. During sessions, clients are connected to sensors that monitor brainwave patterns, providing immediate feedback on their mental states.
This therapy aims to help individuals learn to alter their brain activity to promote relaxation, focus, and emotional stability, which can be particularly beneficial in overcoming addictive behaviors.
By developing greater self-awareness and control over their brain function, individuals can reduce cravings and enhance their ability to cope with stressors that may trigger relapse, making neurofeedback a powerful tool in addiction recovery.
