Why?

Addiction is among the greatest social problems of modernity.

The World Health Organization estimates that over 35 million people suffer from substance use disorders, and claim the lives of 585,000 people each year. Although staggering, these numbers represent just a small fraction of the total addicted population when considering behavioral addictions (like eating, work, sex, and technology use) as well.

The modern societal prevalence of substances and activities that provide quick, easy, and intense releases of dopamine means that addiction is pervasive in the world today. While a given person might not have a story of addiction that entails severe consequences or the imperative to enter a dedicated treatment program, they likely know someone who has, and likely struggle with addiction in other ways. 

Addiction is on the rise, and unfortunately, treatment outcomes are among the worst when compared to other mental health issues. The ineffectiveness of treatment is rooted in an outdated paradigm that classifies addiction as a brain disease. Contemporary science makes it clear– addiction is a complex, multi-dimensional phenomenon that calls for a multidimensional, holistic approach in its understanding and treatment. 

There is a need for more effective, multi-dimensional treatment methods that support participants in not only achieving sobriety, but moving through addiction into a life of deep joy and meaning.