ADDICTION RECOVERY

BEYOND TRADITIONAL TREATMENT
Addiction is rarely just about the substance or the habit; it is often a sophisticated—yet painful—survival strategy. Whether you are navigating chemical dependency or process addictions (digital, relational, or behavioral), I offer a non-pathologizing approach focused on autonomy and insight.

A Root-Cause Approach
Research confirms that significant trauma often precedes the development of addictive patterns. By treating the Co-Occurring nature of these challenges, we address the "why" behind the habit.
My practice specializes in identifying these links during our initial assessment to create a bespoke path forward that includes:

Cognitive & Behavioral Shifts: Identifying the triggers that drive compulsion.

Somatic Integration: Managing the physical cravings and "restlessness" by calming the nervous system.

Relational Healing: Restoring the professional and personal bonds impacted by addiction.

CO-OCURRING DISORDERS

Studies have shown that up to two-thirds of people with addiction have experienced significant trauma at some point in their lives. The link between trauma and addiction is even stronger when the trauma occurs in childhood, while the brain is still developing.

As we better understand the dynamic relationships among mental health, life experiences, genetics/epigenetics and addiction, we become better equipped to help you overcome the challenges you may face. We can also address any other possible co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, and bipolar disorder.

Trauma and PTSD are often overlooked factors in addiction treatment, but the resolution of past trauma can play a major role in successful addiction recovery. While unresolved trauma may often lead addiction, the good news is that effective and comprehensive treatment is available.

AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH

Clinical evidence demonstrates that an integrative approach significantly optimizes recovery outcomes by bridging the gap between traditional treatment and long-term neurobiological health. My practice offers a curated selection of advanced modalities designed to restore both agency and equilibrium.

Core Components include:

Targeted Trauma Resolution: Specialized, evidence-based protocols to resolve the core PTSD symptoms and "survival stress" that often drive addictive cycles.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): A collaborative, precision-focused dialogue designed to clarify personal values and fortify the internal resolve for change.
Curated Clinical Groups: Structured environments that foster a deep sense of stability, shared insight, and professional support.
Trauma-Sensitive Yoga: Clinical movement practices designed to help you reclaim physical presence and regulate the autonomic nervous system.
Mindfulness & Attention Training: Developing the cognitive capacity for "sovereign attention"—the ability to maintain focus and emotional calm amidst internal or external stressors.

Connect with Carole

carole shepherd, LCSW-R, LMT, RYT, SEP

carole shepherd, LCSW-R, LMT, RYT, SEP

ADDICTION RECOVERY