The majority of treatment facilities provide the same treatment for all types of substance use disorders (including alcohol). Generally speaking, there is some logic to this approach because there are common threads that run through all addictions, including behavioral addictions such as gambling and sex addiction. The question is, should there be specialized treatment for different substances (or addictions)? Does a person who is struggling with their alcohol use encounter the same challenges or experiences as someone who is struggling with an opiate addiction? I have done research in this area, and have found evidence that there are personality differences between those who use different substances. For example, I found a general trend that suggested that those who prefer stimulants tend to be introverted whereas those who prefer opiates tend to be extroverts. If there are personality differences between users of different substances, and if these differences influence or contribute to one’s substance use, tailoring the therapy to address these differences may improve the efficacy of one’s treatment. If an individual uses because it helps them address social anxiety, improving one’s social skills and confidence will be an important component of therapy. In addition, there are other unique factors among different addictions that need to be addressed. An individual with an alcohol use disorder will need to learn how to better navigate, or even avoid when possible, many social functions and celebrations because alcohol is often involved in these events. However, an individual who is struggling with pathological gambling will need assistance in managing money, as cash can be a major trigger for him or her. Specialized treatment would allow one to address these differences.
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Narberth,
PA Therapist
Dr. Marc L. Feldman
610-675-5517
FAX: 484-709-1676
[email protected]
Professional Endorsements
"Dr Marc Feldman is an outstanding clinician and collaborator. He is kind, non-judgmental, reliable, and goes above and beyond for his patients. I would highly recommend his services to a loved one looking for compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic addiction treatment".
--Dr. Michael Ascher,
MD.
"Dr. Feldman is an exceptional psychologist and well-respected colleague whom I had the pleasure to work with at the Keystone Center. Dr. Feldman's sensitivity to his clients' needs is only matched by his professionalism in providing them the best possible services. He is compassionate, warm, and genuine-- several of the most important ingrediants of a psychologist. It is for these reasons that I-- without reservation-- recommend his services".
-- Dr. Chad Coren,
Psy.D., CAADC
"I have known Dr. Feldman since 2010 and we have collaborated on some complicated cases. Dr. Feldman has always provided his patients with exceptional care, has great insight into understanding the challenges faced by them and readily collaborates with physician providers. His expertise has helped many patients find their way in life again. He is a compassionate, warm and very experienced clinician as his patients have come to know."
--Dr. Mohamed Dattu,
MD
"I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Feldman as a peer and a colleague. Dr. Feldman is a psychologist who is truly invested in the well-being of his clients. His combination of empathy and professionalism allows him to connect with his clients in a unique and therapeutic manner. Dr. Feldman uses a variety of psychological techniques to individualize the therapeutic process according to the needs of the client. He is an excellent clinician who has been able to reach even significantly resistent clientele in order to help them achieve their goals".
-- Dr. Emily Chaffin,
Psy.D.
"As a criminal defense attorney, I often work with individuals who have substance abuse problems that have either resulted in, or played a role in their criminal charges. I refer many of these individuals to Dr. Feldman, because I am confident that they will receive competent and effective treatment, and that they will not be judged for their substance use or legal problems. I also practice family law, and have referred couples to Dr. Feldman in order to address the issues that have either caused them to seek legal counsel, or to work on problems that were created by their legal situation."