Title : Neurorehabilitation: A science driven approach to residential treatment for additions
Abstract:
In 1939, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) World Services Inc. published its text which, remarkably, is still in broad use today and shows no signs of losing popularity. Within the profession of caring for people suffering from addictions of all types in residential and ambulatory care sites, the Twelve Steps still remain a gold or, at minimum, a comparison standard. On the other hand, the field of addiction counselling is emerging in response to significantly growing population needs. Addiction Counsellors have developed professional certifications and licensing through embracing well developed therapeutic modalities and the scientific method. For the most part, the two approaches are believed to complement each other.
Nonetheless, the two predominant approaches to care for persons, counselling and twelve step programs differ significantly from each other and do not directly reinforce one another. This presentation outlines the neurobiological veracity of Step One, which gives a robust and comprehensive novel understanding of addiction and unites the two approaches. We have developed a remarkably successful educational program which employs proven counselling methods to help clients integrate science with their experience. Additionally, the science of recovery helps clients navigate the characteristic challenges through early and later recovery.
