Addictions Therapy

Addictions Therapy

Our Approach

The Healthpoint model for addictions therapy involves a three-tiered approach: Laser, Detoxification, and Neurotherapy.

Healthpoint Laser is the only clinic offering this type of treatment program for addiction.  It is a new paradigm in addiction therapy.  The use of laser with neurotherapy has never been combined and we feel it will change the way addictions are treated.  Laser treatments work to remove the desire to use and withdrawal from the specific substance.  Detoxification helps to rid the body of toxins associated with abuse of the substance.  Neurotherapy works to change the underlying condition of the brain responsible for addictive behaviour.

There are many contributory causes of addictive behavior. People may “self-medicate” to avoid unpleasant feelings, so often we find that persons who abuse psychoactive substances such as alcohol and marijuana are clinically depressed. Feelings of failure can also be associated with escaping into alcohol and drug induced mental stupor. Hence, adults who have untreated ADD frequently are substance abusers because of their experience with failure in their careers and their relationships.

Anxiety can likewise be related to addictive behaviors. The classic example is the adolescent who experiences social anxiety and finds that things go easier in social gatherings if they drink some alcohol before the event. They find “liquid courage” in the alcohol and become dependent. Similarly, persons with anxiety related sleep disturbances often come to rely on alcohol to help them sleep. The problem with dealing with anxiety by using some mind altering substance is that the person can become dependent or addicted, using increasing amounts over longer periods of time. Sadly, we frequently find elderly people who are lonely or depressed after the loss of their partner who become dependent on alcohol to help them through their unhappy waking hours.

There can also be a genetic basis for addiction. Commonly, we find that the addict has a severe deficiency of slow frequency brainwave amplitude and/or a marked elevation of fast frequency amplitude in the back of the brain. Basically, these people can’t find peace in their own head and use alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling or other distraction to get some relief. Alcohol and some drugs increase slow frequency brainwave amplitude so the person experiences a sedating effect that continues until they fall asleep or pass out. Focusing activities such as sex or gambling distract the person by narrowing the perceptual field so the brain chatter is quieted. Such narrow focus can also distract the person from feelings of guilt, shame, social anxiety or sadness.

It is clear from the above that there are many contributory factors to addiction including both the physiological and the psychological. Treatment of these conditions includes the normalizing of brainwave activity with neurotherapy coupled with behavioral and/or cognitive therapies. Neurotherapy has the highest success rate of any therapy in the treatment of primary (genetic) alcoholism.

The risks are well known. Simply put, drugs are poison to the body. Too much of a drug, too pure of a drug and your heart can stop. Use alcohol with a sedative together you have a recipe for decreased breathing and possible overdose. Obviously this is a serious problem that requires a serious solution.

At Healthpoint Laser Clinic, we use modern technology and a multidisciplinary approach with laser therapy, to help relieve the physical need for the drug, while at the same time using behaviour modification to teach our clients how to remain drug free. We incorporate a comprehensive, team-based approach places our client in the best position for success while working with your family doctor.

Is it time to stop your addiction? Call us today. 778.478.9695

A series of non-invasive, relaxing laser light treatments ease the physical cravings and withdrawal symptoms of quitting alcohol, prescription or illicit drugs. Our proven behavioural modification program assists you to think and behave like a non-addict. Freedom from addiction is possible, and it’s easier than you may think.

Since the beginning of time, humans have been trying to manipulate how we feel. We seek pleasure and avoid pain. It makes sense.

By nature we are excited to try anything that will bring about a high or a feeling of pleasure. Addiction, whether it be to mood altering drugs, alcohol or smoking, usually begins in adolescence and, if left untreated, can spiral out of control.

We become trapped when the brain becomes dependent on the feel good response and demands the substance. The mind is powerful, however; the addicted brain is unable to control the physical need, and in turn, develops an addictive personality in order to live with the addiction as opposed to quit the addiction.