What is Neuroplasticity? Does Addiction Treatment Really “Rewire Your Brain?”

Neuroplasticity is a simple concept, but really appreciating the science of what goes into “rewiring your brain” may renew your belief that recovery from addiction is always possible. Hope isn’t just a fluffy idea in recovery. The promise of “rewiring your brain” away from patterns of active addiction towards healthier pathways is actually an evidence-based […]

Many patients in Portland, Oregon find that Alcoholics Anonymous is a bad fit. Why?

As an addiction medicine doctor, I’ve found that many patients begin their recovery journey with a 12 step program. For some, this works wonders. For others, the 12 steps don’t feel like a good fit.  So, what happens if Alcoholics Anonymous isn’t effective for you? What can you do now?  The answer is: plenty. Here’s […]

TMS for depression in Portland Oregon: How does it work?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for individuals in Portland struggling with treatment-resistant depression.

What is Outpatient Addiction Treatment? Why Is It So Popular Right Now in Portland?

When most people think of addiction treatment, they think of residential treatment, colloquially referred to as “rehab.” In the popular imagination, addiction is a problem with only one solution. You’ll hear things like “she needs to go to rehab,” “I’m trying to get him into rehab,” and “they’re trying to make me go to rehab.”  […]