Acupuncture in Recovery

Different Approaches to Addiction Treatment

Different Approaches to Addiction Treatment

Recovery from addiction is not the same for everyone. While many have found success with 12-step programs, this approach might not suit everyone. There are various non-12-step methods that have proven effective in treating substance use disorders and helping individuals maintain sobriety. One such method is the Stages of Change model, which outlines five phases: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Other evidence-based therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI), offer alternatives that don’t rely on the traditional 12 steps. Additionally, experiential and holistic therapies such as acupuncture, mindsight, and interpersonal neurobiology can also support the overall health of individuals affected by substance abuse. These alternative approaches allow for personalized care plans to assist anyone on their recovery journey.
Acupuncture in Recovery

You may have heard about the 12-Step program for treating addiction through therapy or recommendations. The Twelve Steps serve as guiding principles, offering a specific set of actions for people to follow in their battle against addiction. This program has successfully helped many individuals achieve sobriety from alcohol and other drugs. However, it’s important to understand that addiction recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. There are various paths available for those seeking to overcome addiction.

Many effective alternatives to the 12-Step program exist for individuals dealing with substance use disorder (SUD). These methods include the Stages of Change, evidence-based treatments, experiential therapy, and holistic therapy. Understanding these different approaches can empower you to choose the treatment plan that is most suitable for your needs.

The Stages of Change for Addiction Treatment

Developed by researchers Prochaska and DiClemente at the University of Rhode Island, the Stages of Change model explains the different steps individuals go through on their path to recovery from addiction. This model, also known as the transtheoretical model (TTM), highlights that changing behavior is a gradual process that occurs in five distinct stages. These stages outline the journey toward achieving and maintaining sobriety.

  1. Pre-contemplation
  2. Contemplation
  3. Preparation
  4. Action
  5. Maintenance

Often, treatment facilities include a sixth step in this process: either stability or relapse.

This model effectively shows that changing behavior takes time. Change is not a straight line and differs for each person. It also allows individuals to start from their current state in recovery and encourages them to be open to change, instead of pushing them into it.

Throughout their recovery, people can revisit these stages multiple times. They often start in the pre-contemplation stage, where they may be unaware or in denial about their substance use issues. From there, they progress through the stages, not always in order, ultimately reaching a point where the problem is no longer a factor in their lives.

Evidence-Based Addiction Treatments and Therapies

There are different evidence-based therapeutic treatments that do not follow the outline of traditional 12-Step programs. Some examples include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a popular and extensively studied method of treatment. It integrates aspects of cognitive and behavioral therapy to assist people in recognizing the links between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. For those recovering from substance use disorders, CBT supports them in facing and changing harmful thoughts and behaviors related to their substance use.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy – Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a proven treatment that comes from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). The key distinction between the two is that DBT incorporates mindfulness techniques. Instead of just focusing on challenging negative thoughts and behaviors, DBT encourages individuals to accept and manage their emotions and actions. This approach is particularly effective for those dealing with substance use disorders and related mental health issues.

Motivational Interviewing -Motivational interviewing (MI) is a person-centered treatment approach that helps strengthen an individual’s motivation to change.

The five key principles of this approach include:

  1. Communicating empathy toward the patient
  2. Fostering trust and collaboration
  3. Developing discrepancy
  4. Adapting to resistance
  5. Increasing the patient’s self-efficacy

Experiential and Holistic Therapies

Experiential and holistic therapy methods focus on individualized care. While each approach may offer unique advantages for addiction recovery, they all aim to support the person as a whole. Instead of simply treating the symptoms of substance use disorder, holistic therapy considers all aspects of an individual’s well-being that may have been impacted by substance use. These aspects include:

  • Physical well-being
  • Mental well-being
  • Spiritual well-being
  • Emotional well-being
  • Social well-being

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of holistic therapy that has been practiced for centuries. It is based on the belief that all living beings possess qi, or vital energy. When the energy channels in our bodies are out of balance, we become more susceptible to illness. On the other hand, a balanced qi promotes good health.

The process of acupuncture involves inserting small needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways. Studies indicate that acupuncture enhances blood flow, triggers the release of important endorphins, and positively affects neurotransmitters. These effects can significantly aid brain and body function, particularly for those recovering from substance use disorders.

Mindsight & Interpersonal Neurobiology

Mindsight and interpersonal neurobiology are forms of holistic therapy that help people identify and manage their emotions while building strong relationships with others. This method incorporates mindfulness meditation to assist with emotional control. It also emphasizes the importance of social support in enhancing recovery and promoting brain development.

More Examples

Other examples of experiential and holistic, non-12-Step approaches that can aid in one’s recovery process include, but are not limited to:

  • Family systems therapy
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Relapse prevention therapy
  • Yoga therapy
  • Roleplaying

Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life. Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

Admissions

See Our Facility!

What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.

What Should I Bring?

What to Expect?

Why Transformations by the Gulf?


What is Inpatient Rehab?

What is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient treatment centers offer clinical support, supervision, and connections to various step-down programs for your transition after medical detox. During inpatient treatment, you stay at a rehab facility that provides a nurturing and monitored environment. Once you complete inpatient rehab, you have options to continue your recovery in settings such as residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, or outpatient treatment.
You must remain at the facility for the duration of the program, including overnight stays. While no treatment works for everyone, inpatient rehabilitation is highly effective for individuals facing severe addictions, lacking support, and experiencing limited success with less intensive care options.

Why Choose us for Inpatient Treatment?

men's alcohol addiction rehabilitation center ‌ ‌

The success of a person’s recovery depends on the level of personalized treatment provided. It is important to find an addiction treatment program that works.  When we say our treatment is individualized, we mean that we craft a program tailored to address the client’s unique physical, mental, and emotional needs. Residential Inpatient Treatment can help you.

In the client’s first 24 hours with us, we’ll evaluate their current state and work to understand what challenges they need to overcome. They’ll also have an initial session with our doctor and meet with one of our licensed mental health professionals.

After the initial evaluations, we’ll design a treatment plan with the sole mission of helping the client overcome and heal from addiction. Their program will focus on things such as:

  • Addressing and identifying root causes of addiction.
  • Creating a support system.
  • Developing healthy stress management techniques.
  • Eliminating substance use.
  • Learning how to communicate emotions effectively.
  • Maintaining a healthier lifestyle.
  • Repairing damaged relationships.

Can I Bring my Cell Phone and Laptop?

At Transformations by the Gulf, we understand that life doesn't stop around you when you enter treatment with that being said you are able to bring your cell phone and laptop with you. During free time you able to use your devices as long as it doesn't impact your ability to focus on recovering from addiction.

Do You Need Drug or Alcohol Rehab in Florida?

Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life. Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

Admissions

See Our Facility!

What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.

What Should I Bring?

What to Expect?

Why Transformations by the Gulf?

 


Will Insurance Pay for Addiction Treatment?

Will Insurance Pay for Addiction Treatment?

Yes, often. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that private insurance companies offer some level of substance abuse treatment coverage to their members. The ACA classifies substance abuse treatment as a vital health care benefit for citizens of the United States. As a result, most insurance providers cannot entirely refuse coverage for substance use disorders. However, the specifics of your coverage will vary based on the state where you obtained your benefits and the type of health care plan you selected, such as a PPO or HMO plan.
Rehabilitation insurance companies might require their clients to select from a limited list of approved or "in-network" or "out-of-network" providers, which helps keep treatment expenses lower. Additionally, they may ask members looking for detox services and other addiction treatments to cover part of their care costs through premiums, deductibles, and copayments. In some cases, if you have reached your out-of-pocket maximum, you may have no copay when entering treatment.
Certain insurance plans fully cover detox and treatment costs once members reach their deductibles. Other insurers may require members to make copayments for each service billed by the treatment facility. Treatment at out-of-network facilities can often result in higher costs for insured members. The detox process can differ based on the substance involved, and the extent of insurance coverage will also vary according to the selected method and the individual's specific policy. For instance, a non-medical detox may be less expensive compared to a hospital-based detox program. Although insurance providers are generally required to cover substance abuse treatment, they are not obligated to cover inpatient care. If outpatient treatment fails, inpatient care may be considered medically necessary. Medical necessity occurs when an insurance company decides, based on careful clinical judgment by a physician, that the patient requires inpatient treatment.

What do I do if I Have Questions About My Benefits?

Will Insurance Pay for Addiction Treatment? Gives us a call at 727-498-6498, we can run your insurance benefits and tell you what your insurance covers, if you have a copay, and more. Don't wait to get the help you need today.

Do You Need Drug or Alcohol Rehab in Florida?

Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life.

Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

Admissions

See Our Facility!

What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.

What Should I Bring?

What to Expect?

Why Transformations by the Gulf?

 


Learning to Live Sober with Transformations

Learning to Live Sober with Transformations

If you are in the early stages of recovery or contemplating it, you may be curious about how to lead a satisfying life post-addiction. It's understandable given your long reliance on substances. For some, addiction becomes so ingrained that they struggle to imagine functioning without it. Despite your history with addiction, know that a fulfilling life without substance abuse is achievable. Though it may not be clear to you at the moment, embarking on recovery is a positive step towards a rewarding life. Allow us to demonstrate the possibilities of life after addiction.

How Addiction Starts

Living a sober life is a challenging yet valuable choice. Overcoming addiction isn't as simple as it may seem. Once addiction takes hold, the desire for the substance becomes constant. Addiction is a serious mental health issue that distorts the brain's reward system. Dopamine, the happiness-inducing chemical, is released when addictive substances are abused, creating intense euphoria. This cycle reinforces addictive behavior, making recovery a daunting task due to the altered reward system in the brain.

Recovery Process

Recognizing the dependence formed by addictive behaviors allows individuals to choose between maintaining the status quo or seeking change. Opting to cease addictive behaviors is consistently the wisest course of action. Upon committing to change, individuals can initiate the recovery journey. What many fail to comprehend is the formidable nature of this process, largely due to the challenges of withdrawal and temptation. Withdrawal signifies the body's reaction to the absence of the numbing substance, leading to distressing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, sweating, and irritability. These discomforts can trigger a relapse as the body craves the euphoria induced by substance abuse. Nevertheless, numerous individuals conquer these obstacles through recovery programs, detoxification, counseling, and group therapy. While the initial 30 days may be arduous, subsequent phases typically improve. However, the battle against temptation continues post-recovery and may persist indefinitely. One might question the endeavor, pondering if the struggle is truly worthwhile. Undeniably challenging, the journey is not without merit. Rest assured, life can drastically enhance once addiction is overcome.
  • Free From Dependency: One of the biggest pros of living a sober life is the fact that you are free from dependency. If you’ve lived a life in addiction, you’ve lived a life that is centered around substances. Addicts become dependent on a particular substance in order to function normally or comfortably in life. Once a person is able to kick substance abuse, they can start to learn to be more independent. Becoming independent is a key aspect of growing up and becoming an adult. Once you learn how to be independent from something, you can start to get in touch with your true self.
  • Get Back In Touch With Yourself: If you have faced addiction previously or are currently battling with it, chances are you have been told, "You've changed." This can be a difficult statement to hear from a close friend or loved one, but it is likely true. Addiction can transform individuals into someone they never expected to be. Substance abuse and dependencies can lead a person to become more self-absorbed, illogical, and unkind. Regardless of your pre-addiction self, your chemically reliant self does not reflect the authentic you. Upon breaking free from substance abuse, you can reconnect with your former self before these destructive behaviors took hold. Sobriety enables individuals to recognize the path to becoming a better, happier, and more balanced individual.
  • Repair Broken Relationships: If addiction is a challenge for you, it is probable that your actions have caused distress to those in your life. Addiction frequently results in strained relationships with loved ones, including friends, family, and partners. It is typical for those close to you to experience pain when someone they care for is struggling with addiction. Individuals battling addiction may employ manipulation, deceit, or even harm against their loved ones as a result of their dependence on substances. It is crucial to understand that these behaviors are influenced by the addiction and not representative of the person's true character. Conquering addiction enables clearer thinking and reflection on past actions. This newfound clarity can facilitate the acknowledgment of past mistakes and the initiation of efforts to repair damaged relationships.
  • Financial Stability: If addiction is a challenge for you, it is probable that your actions have caused distress to those in your life. Addiction frequently results in strained relationships with loved ones, including friends, family, and partners. It is typical for those close to you to experience pain when someone they care for is struggling with addiction. Individuals battling addiction may employ manipulation, deceit, or even harm against their loved ones as a result of their dependence on substances. It is crucial to understand that these behaviors are influenced by the addiction and not representative of the person's true character. Conquering addiction enables clearer thinking and reflection on past actions. This newfound clarity can facilitate the acknowledgment of past mistakes and the initiation of efforts to repair damaged relationships.
There are far more reasons to start living sober than the ones we’ve listed, but as you can see, sobriety can bring some incredible changes in life. As we’ve said before, going through recovery isn’t easy, but you can see just how fulfilling life can be once you decide to kick an addiction.

Do You Need Drug or Alcohol Rehab in Florida?

Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life.

Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

Admissions

See Our Facility!

What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.

What Should I Bring?

What to Expect?

Why Transformations by the Gulf?

 


Substance Use Reaching Historic Highs

Marijuana and hallucinogen consumption, as well as binge drinking, have reached record levels among adults aged 35 to 50.

In 2022, adults aged 35 to 50 saw record highs in their past-year marijuana and hallucinogen use, continuing the upward trend observed in recent years. Meanwhile, individuals aged 19 to 30 experienced significant increases in marijuana and hallucinogen use, as well as marijuana and nicotine vaping, reaching historic levels for this age group. The annual Monitoring the Future (MTF) panel study, which surveys substance use behaviors and attitudes of adults between 19 and 60, revealed these findings. The study is funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research in Ann Arbor.

Binge drinking among younger adults has decreased over the last decade. However, adults aged 35 to 50 in 2022 showed the highest levels of binge drinking ever recorded for this age group, indicating a notable increase over the past year, five years, and ten years.

“Substance use is not limited to teens and young adults, and these data help us understand how people use drugs across the lifespan,” said NIDA director, Nora Volkow, M.D. “Understanding these trends is a first step, and it is crucial that research continues to illuminate how substance use, and related health impacts may change over time. We want to ensure that people from the earliest to the latest stages in adulthood are equipped with up-to-date knowledge to help inform decisions related to substance use.”

The MTF study has been surveying substance use behaviors and attitudes among a nationally representative group of eighth, 10th, and 12th graders every year since 1975. Additionally, a subset of participants is part of a longitudinal panel study that includes follow-up surveys after 12th grade to monitor their drug use into adulthood. These participants are tracked every two years until they reach the age of 30, and then every five years thereafter, with some of the oldest participants now in their 60s.

The 2022 survey of adults gathered data through online and paper surveys between April and October 2022. The researchers categorized the data into two age brackets for trend analysis: 19-30 years old and 35-50 years old. Important discoveries comprise:

Marijuana Use: Among adults aged 19 to 30, the rates of past-year marijuana usage and daily marijuana consumption hit record highs in the recent study. Approximately 44% of participants surveyed in 2022 reported past-year usage, marking an increase from 35% in 2017 and 28% in 2012. Daily marijuana consumption also peaked in 2022 at 11%, surpassing the rates from 2017 (8%) and 2012 (6%).

Reports of past-year marijuana use among adults aged 35 to 50 also reached an all-time high in 2022 (28%). This had increased from the previous year (25% in 2021) and five years ago (17% in 2017), and more than doubled compared to 10 years ago (13% in 2012).

Hallucinogen Use: In the 19 to 30 age group, 8% of adults reported using hallucinogens in the past year, which is notably higher than the rates from five years ago (5% in 2017) and ten years ago (3% in 2012). Common hallucinogens mentioned by participants were LSD, MDMA, mescaline, peyote, shrooms or psilocybin, and PCP. The majority of recent hallucinogen use in 2022 among adults in this age category involved substances other than LSD (7% in 2022).

Past-year hallucinogen use reached historically high prevalence among adults 35 to 50 years old, reported by 4% in 2022. The prevalence reported in 2022 was also a substantial increase compared to the year before (2% in 2021) and five and 10 years ago (no greater than 1% in both 2017 and 2012).

Alcohol Use: In the last ten years, alcohol consumption among adults aged 19 to 30 has decreased, including past-month use, daily drinking, and binge drinking. However, there was a slight increase in past-year drinking for this age group in 2022 (84%) compared to 2017 (82%).

Alcohol use among adults aged 35 to 50 has shown a gradual increase over the past 10 years, with past-year drinking increasing from 83% in 2012 to 85% in 2022. Binge drinking in this older group reached its highest levels (29% in 2022), and increased over the past year, five years, and 10 years (26% in 2021; 25% in 2017; 23% in 2012).

The research indicated a 10-year decrease in the past-year consumption of cigarettes, sedatives, and non-medical use of opioid medications for both adult age brackets. Past-year usage of amphetamines demonstrated a 10-year decline among 19- to 30-year-olds and a 10-year rise among 35- to 50-year-olds. The report also covers drug use patterns among college and non-college young adults, demographic subgroups, and other relevant data.

“The value of surveys such as MTF is to show us how drug use trends evolve over decades and across development – from adolescence through adulthood,” said Megan Patrick, Ph.D., a research professor at the University of Michigan and principal investigator of the MTF panel study. “Behaviors and public perception of drug use can shift rapidly, based on drug availability and other factors. It’s important to track this so that public health professionals and communities can be prepared to respond.”

Results from the related 2022 MTF study of substance use behaviors and related attitudes among teens in the United States was released in December 2022, and 2023 results are upcoming in December 2023.

Do You Need Drug or Alcohol Rehab in Florida?

Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life.

Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

Admissions

See Our Facility!

What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.

What Should I Bring?

What to Expect?

Why Transformations by the Gulf?

 


First Time Seeking Drug or Alcohol Rehab?

First Time Seeking Drug or Alcohol Rehab?

Enrolling in a residential or inpatient addiction treatment program may cause some anxiety when unsure of what to anticipate. These programs offer around-the-clock care and assistance. They entail residing at the facility, necessitating a break from daily commitments to concentrate on addressing substance use disorder. The length of treatment and stay duration are determined by factors such as the seriousness of the disorder, medical requirements, and insurance provisions.

Preparing for Alcohol Rehab

There are things you should pack and have during your stay at an inpatient or residential treatment program and items you should leave at home. You want to make sure to bring your wallet with a picture ID, insurance card, and some money for spending. What sets us apart from other rehabs is that we allow cell phone use, electronic devices, vapes, and cigarettes.

We do provide breakfast, lunch. dinner and snacks but we are an executive style rehab, which means you have full access to a kitchen in your client room. This is a luxury that over 90% of rehabs in the United States cannot provide or do not. We will take you to the grocery store while you are here so you can purchase food items you would like to be able to make in your room. We also do not restrict food portions in our dining room.

When you are ready to start packing its recommended you bring comfortable close. Bring 4-7 days' worth of close. They cannot have offensive names, drug content, or alcohol content on them.  We have laundry machines on site so you will be able to wash your clothes as often as you need. You can also bring laptops, mp3 players, cell phones, as well.

Self-Care items that you should bring or considering bringing:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Supplements will be checked by the nurse or clinical director upon admission.
  • Mouthwash (alcohol free).
  • Deodorant.
  • Soap/body wash.
  • Shampoo and conditioner.
  • Brush/comb.
  • Hair dryer/curling iron.
  • NO bottled or aerosol hairspray.

When you arrive at rehab, your recovery journey commences. As part of intake, you will undergo an interview or fill out a questionnaire to help the facility understand your situation and design a personalized treatment plan based on your alcohol or drug use and any concurrent health issues. If necessary, you may proceed to detox, where a treatment team will oversee you, provide necessary interventions for your safety, and assist in managing withdrawal symptoms. Following detox, you will engage in behavioral therapy, one-on-one counseling, educational sessions, and additional activities.

Arriving at the Facility

Upon your arrival at the rehabilitation center, you will have a one-hour meeting with a member of the admissions team. This individual may have a medical background, such as a nurse or therapist, or they could be the intake director or another team member. The purpose of this initial meeting is to familiarize the staff with your situation in order to develop a personalized care plan for your rehabilitation stay. You will also complete necessary paperwork, confirm your insurance coverage, and provide detailed information about your medical history and that of your family. Additionally, a staff member will assist you in checking your belongings to ensure compliance with the facility's guidelines. Following the admissions meeting, you will undergo a medical and psychiatric assessment to further tailor your treatment plan. During this evaluation, a nursing staff member will assess your vital signs, perform an initial drug screening, and gather more details about your history and past treatment experiences.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment and Behavioral Therapy

Beyond detox, treatment involves individual and group therapies. Individual therapy focuses on setting recovery goals and addressing co-occurring disorders. In group therapy, individuals are encouraged to share their feelings and experiences with peers facing similar situations. Common rehab treatment methods include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients recognize how their thoughts and beliefs contribute to addiction, and motivational interviewing (MI) to support motivation for change and address resistance. Facilities may also offer dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to help manage emotions and improve relationships through mindfulness, distress acceptance, emotional regulation, and communication. Family therapy may also be used in some rehab facilities to mend relationships impacted by addiction.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

An aftercare program, also known as continuing care, assists in transitioning from completing a treatment program to returning to your home environment, responsibilities, and support system. It also aids in maintaining the skills acquired during rehabilitation and applying them to daily life. Aftercare varies for each individual and may involve residing in a sober living environment, participating in group therapy, support groups, or a 12-Step program, and continuing individual or family therapy. The ideal combination of aftercare measures offers numerous advantages for individuals in early recovery, such as sustaining treatment progress, preventing relapse, fostering self-confidence in recovery, connecting individuals with community resources, and repairing or strengthening relationships with others.

Do You Need Drug or Alcohol Rehab in Florida?

Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life.

Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

Admissions

See Our Facility!

What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.

What Should I Bring?

What to Expect?

Why Transformations by the Gulf?

 


Rehab After New Year

Fear of the Unknown in Recovery

Fear of the Unknown in Recovery

Fear is the number one emotion that comes to mind when the idea of getting help for your addiction comes up. It feels like a stressful or distressing emotion that creates the fear of impending doom, fear is a trigger for both anxiety and avoidance. It can cause a full-blown panic attack or drive someone away from the help they need. The fact is you have probably been so used to or so stuck in the same routine that anything other than that appears as terrifying when in all fact it isn't. It's simply that you do not know how to regulate your emotions due to the constant numbing of feelings or coping through drugs, alcohol, or other risky behaviors. This is the number one reason why people do not get help.

The Facts

People fear a lot of different things when addiction treatment or recovery is brought up. Some of the most common fears include:

  • Fear that treatment won’t work.
  • Fear that treatment will hurt or be painful.
  • Fear that life won’t be as enjoyable when sober.
  • Fear that the challenges of life will be too much to bare without drugs or alcohol.
  • Fear that treatment will cost too much.
  • Fear that recovery will create too many boundaries.
  • Fear that staying sober will be too difficult.
  • Fear that relationships will suffer in recovery (especially if only ONE partner in the relationship chooses recovery).

How Fear Affects Recovery

Fear can hinder the recovery process. Many individuals often let their fear obstruct their path to recovery, leading them to forgo treatment or discontinue treatment when faced with challenges. Experiencing fear during recovery is common, but excessive fear can hinder your progress. Be ready to address any instances of overwhelming fear that may obstruct your path to full recovery from substance abuse or addiction.

  • Fear that impeded emotional healing in recovery.
  • Fear that is used to justify relapse.
  • Fear that builds a sense of dissatisfaction in recovery.
  • Fear that causes you to make poor decisions.
  • Fear that creates undue stress and leads to relapse.
  • Fear stopping you in your tracks, preventing you from taking action and getting help.
  • Fear that prevents you from thinking clearly about what is necessary.

 

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help. Find out more information from Psychology Today!
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

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Recovering Alcoholics Shouldn’t Drink Kombucha

Recovering Alcoholics Shouldn’t Drink Kombucha

Kombucha is popular among yoga instructors and health enthusiasts and is being praised as a miraculous elixir. However, for individuals recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, the presence of natural alcohol in kombucha can pose a concern, despite its minimal amount. It is not recommended for consumption if you are in recovery and can be viewed as a relapse.

Alcoholics Anonymous serves as a supportive environment for individuals in recovery, where achievements of all sizes are acknowledged, and accountability is upheld by peers striving towards sobriety. However, the presence of minimal alcohol content in beverages such as kombucha can present a dilemma for certain members. Kombucha may or may not contain wondrous healing powers, as many of its most devoted drinkers claim, but it contains booze.

Kombucha with less than 0.5% ABV, classified as non-alcoholic by the TTB, undergoes a primary fermentation period lasting from five to 30 days, depending on taste preferences. During this phase, the sugar content decreases, resulting in a more vinegary taste. The secondary fermentation occurs when the kombucha is bottled and left to enhance its flavor and carbonation, potentially increasing the ABV levels to up to 2.5%. To achieve ABV levels exceeding 3%, the drink must undergo a third fermentation by incorporating grains, leading to the creation of what brewers refer to as "kombucha ale" or "probiotic beer."

In 2010, It was found that some Kombucha was testing at upwards of 3% alcohol content and had to be pulled from shelves in Whole Foods stores. This is why you are walking a tightrope with your recovery if you plan to consume kombucha when in recovery.

Get Help Today

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.

 


What Is a Sober Living?

What Is a Sober Living?

A sober living home is a communal residence run by peers that aims to support individuals in staying sober. This is accomplished by adhering to sobriety regulations, attending recovery meetings, and actively engaging in household tasks. Residents of these homes rent rooms on a long-term basis and lead a lifestyle aligned with their commitments, such as employment and education.

If you or a friend has recently stopped consuming alcohol and is now sober, congratulations. Ceasing alcohol intake can be a challenging process. Now that the detox stage is complete and you have finished your time at a rehabilitation facility, you may be curious about what comes next upon returning home. This phase can be crucial for your sobriety. Treatment programs generally provide structure and routines that aid in maintaining sobriety. Losing this support after completing the program can pose a risk to your recovery.

Discover the role of a sober living house in supporting individuals on the path to recovery from addiction. These residences offer a structured environment and assistance for individuals in the healing process. They serve as a transitional setting between formal treatment and reintegration into society. Explore the concept of sober living houses, their origins, variations, suitable candidates, and methods for locating one.

Sober Living Houses

The majority of individuals living in these residences have just finished a program for treatment, either as an inpatient or outpatient. Exiting the treatment regimen can greatly impact your sobriety, which is why these programs have rigorous schedules consisting of counseling, group therapy, and engaging activities. Although a sober living home does not provide counseling sessions, it does offer a supportive environment and a sense of routine to assist in sustaining sobriety. Furthermore, maintaining your sobriety usually necessitates a living space that is devoid of substances. Sober living facilities are commonly seen as a pathway for sober individuals to reintegrate into mainstream society.

The History of Sober Living Houses

Sober living houses were established in the late 1940s by active members of Alcoholics Anonymous, who created a living environment based on the "12-step" program. These residences, usually located in low-income areas, had strict rules about sobriety and mandatory attendance at AA meetings, held both in the house and nearby community centers. Since their inception, sober living houses have adapted to better serve individuals in recovery. Today, sober living organizations streamline the process of finding suitable housing, and there are also numerous independent sober living houses that have maintained similar protocols to those established in the late 1940s.

Types of Sober Living Houses

There are a few types of sober living houses:

  • Traditional sober living home, residents pay a monthly rent, attend recovery meetings, maintain sobriety, and contribute to household tasks.
  • Sober re-entry program, also called halfway houses, sober living residences are commonly suggested for individuals who were previously incarcerated. Some may still be on parole, completing their sentences under supervision outside of prison. Parole often mandates drug-free status, making a sober living residence crucial. These initiatives provide support during the reintegration process. While some programs are not exclusively tailored for former inmates, they follow strict guidelines and have on-site staff. Many programs impose a maximum length of stay.
  • Transitional housing programs, these are facilities where individuals who were once homeless can reside as they work towards stability and finding permanent housing. Certain transitional housing programs may request evidence of sobriety.

Get Help Today

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.

 


putting post its up to remind you to stay sober

Setting Goals in Early Recovery

Setting Goals in Early Recovery

Realistic and clearly defined goals can support an individual in the recovery journey. Employing the SMART formula when setting goals enhances the likelihood of success. Addiction recovery is a lengthy process punctuated by various milestones. Establishing goals facilitates progression through different stages without stagnation. While the ultimate aim in recovery is to attain and sustain sobriety, breaking down this larger objective into smaller, achievable goals is beneficial. Examples of goals in substance abuse recovery encompass enrolling in rehabilitation, seeking medical guidance, completing a treatment regimen, and participating in support groups.

Importance of Goal Setting in Recovery

Recovery offers a new beginning, but transformation requires patience, and individuals will not instantly experience a different life once they complete drug or alcohol detox. Setting goals during recovery can assist individuals in determining the steps necessary to progress from their current situation to their desired future.

The benefits of setting goals in recovery include:

  • Helping someone focus on the present and future.
  • Not dwelling on the past.
  • Developing patience and a good work ethic.
  • Creating a sense of pride when people reach their goals.

Additional research indicates that acquiring the skill of setting attainable objectives can aid individuals in decreasing alcohol and substance abuse. Upon embarking on a sober path, individuals might discover an increase in available time, finances, and vitality to pursue novel activities. This newfound lifestyle may inspire a desire to cultivate fresh abilities and explore uncharted avenues. Objectives in recovery are not limited solely to sobriety-related strategies but can encompass various aspects of life, including interpersonal connections, employment prospects, spiritual growth, and financial well-being enhancement.

Step-by-Step Goal Setting

Individuals in recovery can enhance their likelihood of success by implementing incremental goal-setting. Before establishing objectives, engaging in self-reflection is beneficial. This involves contemplating current life aspects that are enjoyable, desired changes, future aspirations, and preferred activities. As addiction recovery goals are unique to each individual, disparities among goals are acceptable. SMART is an acronym that stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound. When people set goals using this formula, they are more likely to take actions that help them get where they want to go.

 

Sticking to Your Recovery Goals

Creating goals is simple, but adhering to them can be challenging. Fortunately, there are various strategies individuals can employ to maintain their focus. One key tip is to avoid setting overly ambitious goals. Attempting to achieve too many objectives simultaneously often leads to failure. Concentrating on a couple of goals at a time reduces the risk of burnout and increases the likelihood of success. An effective method for sticking to goals is to write them down. Documenting goals makes them easier to monitor and enhances the chances of accomplishment. For instance, setting deadlines on a calendar serves as a helpful reminder.

Surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can also boost goal achievement. Forming accountability partnerships with like-minded individuals can provide encouragement and motivation. Moreover, asking loved ones to check in on progress can help individuals stay committed to their goals. For example, a person striving for sobriety may request random drug tests from their family members to deter relapse. Successful addiction recovery involves adaptability. Falling short of a goal does not equate to failure but signals the need for a revised plan. External factors, such as illness, can disrupt progress, and it is acceptable to readjust goals accordingly, as long as efforts resume when circumstances normalize.

Get Help Today

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab Path to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.