Heart and Health Medical

Addiction Services Near Me

Long Island Addiction Services

Struggling with substance abuse or addiction, whether it’s you or a loved one, can take a significant toll on both your physical and mental health. The emotional and psychological burden can feel overwhelming, leaving you unsure of where to turn for help. At Heart and Health Medical, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive addiction treatment. Led by Dr. Joyce Gholson, Board Certified in Addiction Medicine, our team offers individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Understanding the root causes of addiction is crucial. Factors like curiosity, emotional pain, mental illness, excitement, sadness, or societal pressure can contribute to behaviors like drug use, gambling, or alcohol dependency. Risk factors such as family history of addiction, childhood trauma, mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, or experiences of neglect and abuse can increase the likelihood of addiction.

At Heart and Health Medical, we offer the support and medical expertise you need to overcome addiction and regain control of your life. Dr. Gholson and our team are here to help you on your journey to recovery.

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The Addiction Services Team at Heart and Health Medical

Addiction Services at Heart and Health Medical

Dr. Joyce Gholson, DO, AOA, ACOFP, FAOAAM

Director of Addiction Services & Family Medicine Specialist

Dr. Joyce Gholson, DO, AOA, ACOFP, FAOAAM, is a highly respected and board certified family physician dedicated to advancing healthcare practices. Her passion for improving patient care has led her to specialize in addiction medicine and outpatient suboxone therapy, showcasing her versatility as a medical professional.

Dr. Gholson’s educational journey culminated in the achievement of her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2006. Following this, she completed her residency at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, refining her expertise in family medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine. Dr. Gholson’s commitment and proficiency have earned her certifications in addiction medicine and family practice, recognized by esteemed organizations such as the AOA Board of Family Physicians and the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons.

Actively involved in prominent medical associations like the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP), Dr. Gholson is also a Fellow of the American Osteopathic Association of Addiction Medicine (FAOAAM).

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Education:

  • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Residency: Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

Memberships:

  • The American Osteopathic Association
  • The American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians
 

Fellow:

  • The American Osteopathic Association of Addiction Medicine

Community Service:

  • Jack and Jill of America (Suffolk County mother member)
  • Boy Scouts of America (Den Leader)
  • The National Coalition of Black Women (Suffolk County chapter member)

Academic Appointments:

  • An Adjunct Professor at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

Addiction Experts

Addiction Services at Heart and Health Medical

Dr. Joyce Gholson serves as the Director of Addiction Services at Heart and Health Medical, where she brings her extensive experience and compassionate approach to the forefront of patient care. With a deep commitment to helping individuals overcome addiction, Dr. Gholson leads a multidisciplinary team in providing comprehensive and personalized treatment plans. Her expertise in addiction medicine, coupled with her dedication to evidence-based practices, ensures that each patient receives the highest level of care.

Heart and Health Medical provides comprehensive addiction services designed to support individuals on their journey to recovery. Our multidisciplinary team offers personalized treatment plans that address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction. Utilizing evidence-based approaches, we provide a range of services, including medical detoxification, counseling, and ongoing support, to help patients achieve and maintain sobriety. Our compassionate care extends to family involvement and aftercare planning, ensuring that every patient has the tools and resources needed for long-term success. At Heart and Health Medical, we are committed to fostering a supportive and healing environment for all those affected by addiction.

Substance Use Disorders

Drug Addiction
Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a chronic condition where individuals find themselves unable to stop using substances despite harmful consequences. Common substances involved include nicotine, sugar, opioids, stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and prescription medications. Some key signs of drug addiction include increasing tolerance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, neglecting responsibilities, and engaging in risky behaviors. Treatment options range from behavioral therapies and counseling to medication-assisted treatment and support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offering a path toward recovery.

  • Definition: Drug addiction, or substance use disorder, is a chronic condition characterized by an inability to stop using a substance despite harmful consequences.
  • Common Substances: Nicotine, Sugar, Opioids, stimulants such caffeine, alcohol, and prescription medications.
  • Signs: Increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, neglecting responsibilities, and engaging in risky behaviors.
  • Treatment: Options include behavioral therapies, counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

Alcoholism

Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, is a condition where individuals develop a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. Common signs include cravings for alcohol, losing control over drinking, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, and continuing to drink despite negative outcomes. Alcohol addiction can lead to serious health problems, such as liver disease and mental health issues, as well as relationship difficulties and legal troubles. Treatment options often include detoxification, counseling, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, and medications such as disulfiram or naltrexone to help manage cravings.

  • Definition: Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, involves a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol.
  • Signs: Craving alcohol, losing control over drinking, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences.
  • Consequences: Health issues (liver disease, mental health problems), relationship difficulties, and legal issues.
  • Treatment: Approaches include detoxification, counseling, support groups (like Alcoholics Anonymous), and medications like disulfiram or naltrexone.

Compulsive Gambling

Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, is an impulse-control disorder where individuals feel a strong compulsion to gamble, even when it leads to negative consequences. Signs of this addiction include a preoccupation with gambling, lying about gambling habits, chasing losses, and neglecting responsibilities. Financial problems, relationship issues, and mental health concerns like anxiety and depression often accompany gambling addiction. Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups like Gamblers Anonymous, and, in some cases, medication.

  • Definition: Gambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, is an impulse-control disorder where individuals feel compelled to gamble despite negative consequences.
  • Signs: Preoccupation with gambling, lying about gambling habits, chasing losses, and neglecting responsibilities.
  • Consequences: Financial problems, relationship issues, and mental health concerns (anxiety, depression).
  • Treatment: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups (like Gamblers Anonymous), and sometimes medication.

Eating Disorders

Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy behaviors and attitudes toward food and body image. Types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, among others. Common signs are extreme dietary restrictions, binge eating, purging, distorted body image, and withdrawal from social activities. These disorders carry significant health risks such as malnutrition, heart issues, and gastrointestinal problems, along with mental health struggles and social isolation. Treatment usually includes therapy, such as CBT, nutritional counseling, and support groups, to aid recovery.

  • Definition: Eating disorders are mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy eating behaviors and attitudes toward food and body image.
  • Types: Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and others.
  • Signs: Extreme dietary restrictions, binge eating, purging, body image distortion, and withdrawal from social activities.
  • Consequences: Serious health risks (malnutrition, heart issues, gastrointestinal problems), mental health issues, and social isolation.
  • Treatment: Often includes therapy (like CBT), nutritional counseling, and support groups.

Common Themes Across Addictions

  • Stigma: All types of addiction carry societal stigma, making it difficult for individuals to seek help.
  • Co-occurring Disorders: Many individuals with addiction may also experience mental health disorders, requiring integrated treatment.
  • Support Systems: Building a strong support network is crucial for recovery across all types of addiction

Comprehensive Care & Treatment Plans

  1. Assessment and Diagnosis
    1. Comprehensive Evaluation: We conduct a thorough assessment to determine the severity of the addiction and any co-occurring mental health issues.
    2. Screening Tools: They may use standardized screening tools to evaluate substance use and its impact on your life.
  2. Medical Management
    1. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Certain medications can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms for substances like alcohol, opioids, or nicotine. Examples include:
      1. Naltrexone for alcohol or opioid addiction.
      2. Buprenorphine for opioid addiction.
  • Detoxification: For some substances, medical supervision during detox followed by outpatient maintenance can be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
  1. Referrals to Specialists
    1. Therapists and Counselors: Physicians can refer you to mental health professionals who specialize in addiction therapy.
    2. Support Groups: They can recommend local or online support groups.
  2. Behavioral Therapy
    1. Some physicians are trained in or can facilitate access to behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational interviewing, which can be effective in treating addictions.
  3. Ongoing Support and Follow-Up
    1. Regular Check-Ins: Ongoing visits with your physician can provide support, monitor progress, and adjust treatment plans as needed.
    2. Holistic Approach: Physicians can help address physical health issues related to addiction, providing a comprehensive approach to recovery.
  4. Education and Resources
    1. Information on Addiction: Physicians can educate you about the nature of addiction, treatment options, and recovery strategies.
    2. Healthy Lifestyle: They can guide you in adopting a healthier lifestyle that supports recovery, including nutrition and exercise advice.
  5. Confidentiality and Trust
    1. Physicians maintain confidentiality, providing a safe space to discuss your challenges without judgment.