Substance addiction is a formidable challenge that not only affects the individual but also deeply impacts their relationships, particularly with their significant other. When couples face addiction together, attending couples rehab treatment as a unit can be a transformative experience, offering numerous benefits that foster recovery and strengthen the relationship. Embarking on the journey of recovery together has the power to transform an ordinary relationship into a pillar of strength. Research supports this notion, showing that Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT) produces grea ..read more

Are you standing at the crossroads of addiction and mental health challenges? I’ve walked a mile or two in the shoes of someone grappling with a dual diagnosis, but before we pull the blanket off the complexities of managing co-occurring disorders in a residential addiction treatment setting, let me tell you that it’s a journey I know all too well—both personally and professionally. When you’re facing not just an addiction but a mental health challenge alongside it, the road to recovery can seem daunting. But I’m living proof that there’s hope and a way forward. Understanding the Spectrum of C ..read more

Mountain Sky Recovery understands that withdrawal symptoms are often considered a necessary part of the recovery process for individuals battling substance abuse. However, it is often so uncomfortable that it has adverse consequences and needs to be handled medically, with medications such as Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, and with ongoing professional emotional support. Personalized Withdrawal Management We begin with a thorough assessment to develop a personalized detox protocol for each client. This includes a carefully managed tapering schedule that is closely monitored by our medical ..read more

Introduction to Breathwork in Recovery By incorporating breathwork into our addiction treatment program, Mountain Sky Recovery is acknowledging the critical role that the body plays in the recovery process. Traditional forms of therapy, such as cognitive therapy, primarily focus on changing one’s thoughts and perspectives. While this is undoubtedly beneficial, it may overlook the physical manifestations of trauma and addiction. The Physical Impact of Trauma on the Body When individuals experience trauma, their bodies naturally respond by tightening and restricting. This physical response ..read more

The Challenge of Dual Diagnosis Disorders For anyone grappling with the coexistence of anxiety disorders (ADs) and substance use disorders (SUDs), it’s important to understand that this dual challenge presents a unique and significant hurdle in mental health and addiction treatment. This dual presence not only complicates treatment but also profoundly affects the effectiveness of traditional approaches. Grasping the relationship between these disorders is crucial in developing and implementing more effective treatment strategies that cater to the nuanced needs of individuals fac ..read more

Merging Personal Experience with Professional Mission Addiction, for many, is an abstract concept – something they’ve heard about but haven’t intimately encountered. For me, it was a stark reality. My personal struggles with addiction have not only shaped my life but have also inspired my professional journey. As a co-founder and drug counselor at Mountain Sky Recovery in Murrieta, CA, I’ve been privileged to merge my insights with professional expertise, witnessing the transformative prowess of residential addiction treatment. In the following passages, we’ll delve deep into why this treatmen ..read more

As the co-founder and drug counselor at Mountain Sky Recovery, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of individuals embarking on their unique journeys to recovery. This journey is often daunting; the path is winding, and the landscape is diverse. With a myriad of treatment options available, understanding your choices can be overwhelming. That’s why I believe in the importance of demystifying these options, empowering individuals and their families to make informed decisions tailored to their needs.  Decoding Addiction: Understanding Its Complex Nature and Impact Addiction is a ..read more

Navigating the depths of addiction can often feel like being adrift in a vast ocean with no sight of the shoreline. Can you relate to that feeling? Are you experiencing it now? I’ve been there too. I understand the crushing waves of despair and how unreachable the land of sobriety can appear. Let me reassure you the first beacon guiding you back to a peaceful life is often the lighthouse of medical detox. It’s an essential lifesaver, yet it can also be the most daunting. As a recovered addict, certified alcohol and drug counselor, and co-founder of Mountain Sky Recovery. I can tell you from bo ..read more

The Role of Brain Chemicals in Emotions and Addiction Our emotions, including pleasure, contentment, pain, and sadness, are driven by chemicals produced by our brain cells. These chemicals, called neurotransmitters, act as messengers between neurons. Specific chemical receptors in each neuron are activated by neurotransmitters, triggering moods or physical reactions. When drugs are used, they alter the concentration of these chemicals in the brain. For example, stimulant drugs like cocaine, crack, or methamphetamine increase dopamine levels, resulting in heightened electrical reactions and fee ..read more

Positive thinking is a mental attitude that embraces thoughts, words, and images that contribute to growth, expansion, and success. In the context of drug and alcohol addiction recovery, a positive mindset can significantly impact the healing process and long-term sobriety. By expecting favorable outcomes, individuals in recovery can improve their chances of overcoming addiction and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. The Power of Positive Thinking in Addiction Recovery A positive attitude in addiction recovery can help individuals develop resilience and cope with the challenges that arise duri ..read more