Among the most frequently asked questions that we receive on the phones are inquiries regarding what makes CARE a holistic treatment program. In its simplest terms it really means that at CARE we treat the patient as a whole, rather than trying to address isolated symptoms and diseases. Another way to look at the situation is to understand that we treat people, not illnesses. In short, we believe that the end product of treatment is the return to a quality of life, rather than simply an attempt to stop someone from drinking.
More specifically, CARE deals with the mind, body and spirit. We believe that treatment is a three legged stool. The first leg is the mind. In this area we address such things as “faulty—or stinking thinking”, disease concept, mental health and emotional issues, trauma and other psychological processes. Our skilled therapists employ both traditional and cutting edge treatment modalities to help stabilize patients, resolve trauma and clarify issues and problems.
We also recognize that brain function is in part controlled by physiology. In addition to the Western Medicines employed by psychiatrist, we use acupuncture, herbal medications, medicinal scents and tonal therapies as well as nutritional therapies a gym and yoga to help restore the body’s balance and attempt to undo the damage that has been done by the illness as well as preparing it for a new and healthy life. We also use acupuncture and other alternative modalities to assist patients in dealing with often very real physical problems without exposing them to addictive drugs.
The last leg is the spiritual content. We recognize that addiction is a deadly, terminal, incurable disease. Acceptance of this definition means that we have to rely on the help of a higher power to restore sanity. This is done through the use of twelve step programs, spiritual counseling by an ordained non –sectarian minister It is through a relationship with a power greater than ourselves that we are able to maintain our sobriety.
The final part of the stool is of course the seat. In order for treatment to really work, it is necessary for the patient to remain on that stool long enough for change to occur. Three legged stools are not terribly comfortable, and neither is treatment. To this end, CARE attempts to provide a nurturing, supportive environment in which patients are treated with respect, dignity, understanding and support so that they can finish their battle.
