Addiction to Alcohol/Expert Profile

Expertise

I am a licensed and nationally certified psychotherapist providing treatment for addictions. I counsel adults and adolescents in outpatient clinics and work in a high school one day per week. I also am an adult child of an alcoholic parent. I can answer questions on any subject related to alcohol abuse and dependency such as: • Adolescent alcohol abuse • Effects on the physical and emotional well-being of the person using alcohol; • Effects on relationships, family, friends and society; • How to tell if you have a problem with alcohol and what to do; • What to do if you suspect a loved one has a problem; • Questions related to treatment, withdrawal and relapse prevention. • Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) vs. “Harm Reduction” models of treatment • Alcohol dependency and co-occurring disorders (also known as "dual diagnosis"), which means addiction plus another mental health issue, such as depression or anxiety.

Experience in the area

I am a licensed psychotherapist providing treatment for addictions. I counsel adults and adolescents in outpatient clinics and work in a high school one day per week. I also am an adult child of an alcoholic parent. Unfortunately, many of my other family members struggle with addiction, too. Hopefully my experience may be able to reach some of your readers.

Organizations

American Counseling Association Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association South Boston Hope and Recovery Coalition

Education/Credentials

I have a Masters Degree in Mental Health and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Boston University. I have completed many continuing education courses such as "Substance Use and the Adolescent Brain" by the Institutes of Health and Recovery and "Self-Harming Behaviors" by Harvard University and the Cambridge Health Alliance.

Past/Present Clients

Adults and adolescents in the Boston area.