Which Treatment Option is Right for You?

In the words of Gabor Maté, famed author on the topic of addiction, “Not all addictions are rooted in abuse or trauma, but I do believe they can all be traced to painful experience.” So, the question we must pose is “Not why the addiction but why the pain.” One of many areas of exploration during treatment for substance use disorders (SUD), particularly when utilizing behavioral health therapies, one of several options available. Treatment begins in your doctor’s office. While you may picture someone checking into a secluded treatment center as the primary (or only) option for substance use disorders, times are changing. In the past, people sought substance use treatment at specialty centers and speciality centers alone. Today, treatment options are more diverse—even available online, over the phone, or in your local doctor’s office. These more accessible options allow people to get help before the SUD progresses, and to receive treatment without delay.  Easier access to treatment services allows for early-on intervention, while the patient's symptoms remain mild to moderate. This is one of the biggest reasons mainstream healthcare settings now include screening for such disorders, proving most effective among mild severity alcohol use disorders. That being said, a primary care provider can only offer so much support for someone struggling with substance use. When it comes to severe cases of any SUD, experts advise specialty treatment.     …
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