Therapist Joshua Bennett-Johnson gives a critical breakdown of xylazine’s rise in the drug supply, its deadly interaction with fentanyl, and why traditional overdose response is no longer enough. Essential reading for clinicians and communities.

Joshua Bennett-Johnson, LADC-II's, firsthand recovery experience reveals the complex role of RX medication in his treatment plan.

Explore the complexities of mania and mood disorders with insights from Dr. Lauren Grawert. Discover why mania requires more than lifestyle changes.

Polysubstance use is now the reality for many people in addiction, but most recovery models haven’t caught up.

Robert Kent reports how telehealth changed everything—yet systems lag behind.

Suicidality is not just a symptom to monitor - it is a distinct clinical condition that requires direct, theory-based treatment. A clinical psychologist, Pia Khandekar's article helps clinicians move beyond checklists toward more grounded interventions.

Failure in therapy doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing it wrong. In fact, it often indicates that you’re putting in the effort. Rannon Arch, the Director of Co-Occurring Clinical Services at Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, reframes failed moments as valuable information and offers guidance on how to learn from them.

Kratom is often marketed as a natural solution for pain or opioid withdrawal. But as its popularity grows, so do reports of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Alcohol initially boosts dopamine and creates feelings of confidence and ease. Over time, however, the brain adapts, reducing natural dopamine production and leaving people feeling anxious, numb, or depressed when sober.

Belinda Morey explores how GLP-1 medications, long-acting implants, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and telehealth are reshaping addiction treatment in 2026. By targeting the biology of cravings and increasing consistency and accessibility, these innovations are offering new hope for sustainable recovery — while reinforcing that medication and technology work best when paired with therapy, support, and daily commitment.

John Makohen outlines the early warning signs of alcohol use disorder and emphasizes the critical role substance use counselors play in early identification and intervention.

Rannon Arch reflects on listening sessions with patients who consistently express a desire for belonging — not just symptom reduction.