Substance use rarely exists in isolation. Behind nearly every case of addiction — whether alcohol, opioids, stimulants, or other drugs — lies an underlying mental health condition that the person has been trying to manage, numb, or escape. What looks like “just a substance use problem” on the surface is often self-medication for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, or complex emotional pain that has gone unaddressed for years.

You’ve probably seen the dramatic TV versions: a room full of angry family members, harsh accusations, tears, and an ultimatum that forces someone into treatment. The person storms out, the family feels defeated, and the whole scene feels more like an ambush than help.

April is Autism Acceptance Month — a time to move beyond mere awareness and truly honor the vibrant, brilliant, and resilient individuals on the autism spectrum who enrich our lives every single day.

Receiving a psychiatric diagnosis can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. One moment you’re trying to make sense of your symptoms, the next you’re holding a label that suddenly explains — and complicates — everything. Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other diagnosis can bring a wave of relief mixed with fear, confusion, grief, and an urgent question: “What do I do now?”

Every year on March 30th, the world comes together to observe World Bipolar Day. This important global initiative aims to raise awareness, eliminate stigma, and promote better understanding of Bipolar Disorder. The date was intentionally chosen to honor the birthday of the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh, who is believed to have lived with Bipolar Disorder.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), you’ve likely heard the term ‘DBT Therapy’ — but what exactly is it, and why do so many experts call it the gold-standard treatment for BPD?

Violence in a family is rarely a single moment. It is often a pattern, learned and reinforced across years, carried in the body as a kind of language, and defended with stories we tell about ourselves and one another. For someone who was repeatedly exposed to harm, the line between victim and perpetrator can blur.

Those of us who have experienced any one of the different forms of addiction, we know it strains familial bonds and complicates even the simplest acts of care. This includes not only family of origin but family of choice and our professional relationships.

When love becomes entangled with patterns of codependency, it can turn into a destructive force that harms both the giver and receiver.

Leaving sober living is a major milestone. It can feel both empowering and scary — a fresh start, yet with new responsibilities and challenges.

Early recovery is a vulnerable and defining time for anyone healing from substance use disorder—but for women and gender non-conforming (GNC) individuals, it’s often even more complex. The intersection of gender, trauma, and social stigma can make staying sober after treatment far more difficult. And yet, access to gender-responsive, affirming sober living environments is still alarmingly limited.

According to Marshall Rosenberg’s book, “Nonviolent Communication,” we deny responsibility for our actions when we attribute their cause to factors outside ourselves.

Healing Isn’t a Task - It’s a Practice

Join Dr. Jennifer Manlowe, as part of Recovery Allies “Family Meeting” series on Zoom Wednesday, January 3rd at 7pm PT. Free and open to any who wish to join!

The growing popularity of high-potency marijuana raises concerns beyond the euphoric experiences it offers. Recent studies have shed light on a concerning connection between high-potency cannabis and induced psychotic or manic states. In this blog post, we delve into the effects of high-potency marijuana and explore the intricate relationship it shares with mental health.

Join Ryan Salter, LMHC, as part of Recovery Allies “Family Meeting” series on Zoom Thursday, September 7th at 7pm PT. Free and open to any who wish to join!

Join Edward Mosshart, LMHC, as part of Recovery Allies “Family Meeting” series on Zoom Thursday, July 6th at 7pm PT. Free and open to any who wish to join!

Join Suzi Landolphi, LMFT, as part of Recovery Allies “Family Meeting” series on Zoom Thursday, June 1st at 7pm PT. Free and open to any who wish to join!

Join Dr. Kristen Allott as part of Recovery Allies “Family Meeting” series on Zoom Thursday, May 4th at 7pm PT. Free and open to any who wish to join!

Am I able to say, "Hey, I think we need to get current in our relationship line." Can I say, "Hey, there's something really important I want to talk about. Is now a good time?" "Maybe I can't drive you to your appointments all of the time anymore, because I have to get back to my own life."