Addiction Treatment

Addiction is a complex condition, often fraught with unnecessary and harmful stigma that can perpetuate rather than address the issue. Regardless of the specific cause, at the core of the problem there is a human being who is struggling to navigate through difficult, painful life circumstances, many of which are outside of one’s control.  While acknowledging the impact of genetic and other biological influences, the Center for Wellness and Change emphasizes each person’s innate capacity for healing by providing an environment of non-judgmental validation and acceptance, autonomy and resiliency, and by fostering confidence and personal growth. 

Rather than simplistically (simply)  approaching substance addiction as only a primary illness, we recognize that in the majority of cases it is instead a symptom of underlying, unprocessed psychological, physical, social, or spiritual distress, which warrants further exploration.  We believe that the greatest opportunity for recovery consists of utilizing an individualized, multifaceted treatment approach; there is no single formula when it comes to treatment planning, yet as with most endeavors in life, the most effective approach is one that is practical, personalized, sustainable, accommodating, and collaborative – which means that your input is not only valued, but is indispensable.

With a mutual decision to integrate medication as part of your treatment plan, we will work together to provide a clear explanation of why we are choosing a particular medication, its benefits, risks, limitations, and alternatives.  While medication is helpful for many, this is but one aspect of treatment and we find that when paired with therapy and non-pharmacologic supports the benefits are magnified and even more durable.  Whether you are new to treatment or have spent years searching for one that is in alignment with your own needs, we are grateful that you have decided to involve us in your journey and we look forward to helping you create the life you were born to live.      

Erik Gunderson, MD and Christopher Rowley, DO provide care for the Addiction Treatment collaboration with Laura Meyer and Jim Clark

Alcohol Health Management

Are you concerned about the impact of alcohol on your health, function, or other aspects of life but don’t identify as an alcoholic? You are not alone.

Many individuals are questioning their relationship with alcohol, as consumption patterns have shifted in response to rising stress, isolation, and other challenging life events. Yet most people with risky or unhealthy alcohol use do not actually meet diagnostic criteria for an alcohol use disorder or alcoholism. Unfortunately, the traditional treatment and self-help systems are geared toward those at the peak of alcohol-related pathology, leaving many people to feel that there is nowhere to go for help.

The CWC Alcohol Health Management Program is available to help you understand and navigate non-disordered drinking that is potentially engrained at an unhealthy level. The program starts with a comprehensive 90-120 minute biopsychosocial assessment to examine alcohol use patterns and potential impact on physiology, health, and well-being. Psychological associations will be explored to understand alcohol consumption habits, which could include usage to unwind or relieve stress, boredom, or isolation. Positive elements reinforcing alcohol use will also be considered, such as when alcohol is paired with food or linked to socialization.

The CWC treatment approach is grounded in curiosity, rather than judgment. You will have the opportunity to objectively look at evidence from your own history rather than starting with preconceived notions or stigmatizing dogma. Your goals and health are the priority.

Intervention frequently integrates various modalities and approaches:

Motivational and insight-oriented psychological approaches promote healthy habit formation.

Treatment discussions to help differentiate moderation from controlled compulsion.

Medication targeting the minimally effective dose might be integrated during treatment, such as: naltrexone tablets (daily or Sinclair method), injectable monthly naltrexone (Vivitrol), topiramate, gabapentin, or others such as to address psychiatric symptoms.

Supportive counseling and mindfulness instruction to provide important tools to raise awareness and support you in achieving your health goals.

Erik Gunderson, MD and Christopher Rowley, DO provide the for the Alcohol Health Management Program in collaboration with Laura Meyer, Jim Clark, and Elizabeth Martin.