Toward Better Theories of Addiction and Recovery
What are the primary “facts” or findings about addiction and recovery, of which any theory of them, and any approach to treatment and recovery, would need to take into account?
Confidentiality and Addiction Treatment
Confidentiality is of major importance in addiction treatment. Our clients need to know that what they tell us, and even their presence in our services, is a secret. We act in a number of ways to protect your confidentiality, some of which may seem strange until you understand them. In addition to all the protection […]
Believing Addiction is a Disease May Be Bad for Your Recovery
How could believing addiction is a disease be bad? There are now several studies suggesting that individuals who believe their behavioral problems (either addiction or mental health) are a disease may have more trouble recovering from them. The most recent study found that individuals who believe obesity is a disease are less focused on weight […]
A Review of “Brainwashed: The Seductive Appeal of Mindless Neuroscience”
Brainwashed: The Seductive Appeal of Mindless Neuroscience By Sally Satel and Scott D. Lillienfeld (New York: Basic, 2013) Review by Tom Horvath, Ph.D. The prominent authors of Brainwashed challenge the widely held view that neuroscience will soon dramatically improve human life. They thoroughly support continued neuroscience research and applaud the knowledge gained thus far. However, […]
Dr. Horvath’s Comments to SACC
The following are comments written by Tom Horvath, Ph.D., and submitted to the SACC: Comments on Uniform Standards 1 and 2, submitted by Dr. Horvath, May 4, 2009 posted here: www.dca.ca.gov/about_dca/sacc/index.shtml ***********************************************************************************Comments on: SB 1441 Substance Abuse Coordination Committee Meeting – Roundtable Discussion on DRAFT Uniform Standards #1 – #6 #1. Why use both “substance abuse” and “chemical dependency?” […]
Substance Abuse and Your Spouse
Here are 5 things Dr. Horvath recommends you consider when discussing substance abuse with your spouse: 1. Take time to notice what is going well in your relationship, and talk about it. Express thanks for what is working. 2. Begin the conversation by identifying the stresses in your spouse’s situation. Is there stress at work, […]
Your Child and Drugs
Five Issues to Consider When it Comes to Your Child and Drugs By Tom Horvath, PhD., ABPP 1) Experimentation with drugs/alcohol is common, and not necessarily bad in itself (depending on the values in your family). It would be unwise to have the same level of emotional response to alcohol use as you would have […]
Is AA Harmful?
Author: Tom Horvath, PhD, ABPP Is AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) potentially harmful to 90% of over-drinkers? The best way to determine whether AA might be helpful or harmful to you is to attend one or more meetings. Keep an open mind. You might be surprised by what you experience. Remember to try several meetings if you […]
International Bipolar Foundation Event
Finding Bipolar Expertise When You Need It Author: Tom Horvath, PhD, ABPP Last week I had the pleasure of hearing a presentation by Tom Jensen, MD, at an International Bipolar Foundation event, Of Mind and Men: Mental Health, Addiction and Hope. Dr. Jensen, an expert on bipolar disorder and the Medical Director of the International […]
Choriatiki Salad Recipe
Choriatiki Salad Enjoy this Choriatiki Salad recipe, compliments of Practical Recovery’s chef, Sarah Jones! 6 Portions 3 firm tomatoes 1 cucumber 1 onion 2 green peppers 1 cup kalamata or black olives 180 grams sheep or goat feta Cheese 1/2 cup olive oil (use first pressed oil, virgin or unrefined) 1/2 cup of vinegar red fresh […]