Re-wiring the Brain - Understanding Neural Science and Its Contribution to Long-term Recovery for Both the Drug Addict/Alcoholic and the Family
August 29, 2011
Hosted by Mary Woods
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Guest Information
Episode Description
Empowering drug addicts/alcoholics and their family members with the knowledge and belief in their ability to re-wire and thereby control their brains – what they think, feel, say and do opens a new approach to long-term recovery and relapse prevention, especially in conjunction with Contractual Continuing Care Plans (CCCPs). Hearing about 21st century brain and addiction-related research, shared in simple, easy-to-understand terms, explains how/why the brains of drug addicts/alcoholics are hijacked by addiction; how/why family members’ brains are hijacked by chronic stress activation of the fight-or-flight system; and equally important, how/why the underlying role of brain development and key Risk Factors can be instrumental in unlocking one’s individualized treatment/recovery path. In this manner, all concerned better understand the power of the brain and how to use that power – as an individual, as a participant in a relationship, as an integrated family following treatment.
One Hour AT A Time
Archives Available on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness Channel
Recovery, whether it is from substance abuse or a mental illness, or both requires a treatment plan, which in many cases is as effective as treatments for other chronic illnesses. “One Hour AT A Time” will increase awareness about recovery and decrease the discrimination against individuals in the recovery process. Host Mary Woods, will help people understand the recovery of adults and families living with co-occurring substance use disorders and psychotic and/or affective illness over the course of a lifetime. Helping individuals develop the skills and knowledge they need to take personal responsibility for their health and supporting individuals in their efforts to get on with life beyond illness has been Mary’s mission and she now brings that mission to the airwaves.
Mary Woods
Mary is the CEO of WestBridge Community Services. She is also a Registered Nurse and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor with more than 25 years experience in substance abuse services and community mental health programs. Mary has conducted extensive workshops and trainings with a primary focus in Motivational Interviewing, Stages of Change Theory and Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders. She is also a contributor to the development of the Integrated Dual Disorders Treatment Practitioners and Clinical Supervisors Workbook and Practice Demonstration Video. Mary was the Chairperson of the NH State Board of Licensing for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professionals. She has been a member of the NH Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselor’s Association since 1984, and has served as the Northeast Regional Vice President for the NAADAC, the Association of Addiction Professionals, President of NAADAC and is currently past president of NAADAC.
