As people continue to isolate, rates of substance use continue to rise rapidly. This includes the use of marijuana, and it’s certainly worth discussing. Know the Risks Scientifically-defensible data about the true risks of regular marijuana use are more readily accessible today. It is important to know the risks, especially considering the new forms and tremendously high levels of THC … Read More
Quarantined with an Angry and Abusive Family Member?
Being isolated at home with family and other household members can be very, very stressful. It is very scary to be in a home with an abusive family member. On top of the recent quarantine due to COVID-19, domestic violence and abuse is rising worldwide. In fact, for many homes, the violence is becoming more frequent, more severe and more … Read More
Telemedicine and Teletherapy
As COVID-19 spreads, telemedicine and teletherapy has emerged as a dominant technology all over the world. Also called virtual care, eHealth, online therapy, and audio-conferencing, our clinicians have been providing these services to select clients for several years. We call our teletherapy services Maven Online, coming from the Hebrew name of one who understands, and we are committed to increasing … Read More
Operation Impact, DWI Education, and Clinical News
Columbia Treatment Center Receives 3 Year License CTC received 3 year renewal of its license to provide early intervention programs and DWI education. This license is administered by the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration through the regulatory process as governed by COMAR Title 10, Subtitle 63 Community-Based Behavioral Health Programs and Services. Operation Impact This fall, Columbia Treatment Center is launching … Read More
Deadly Effects of New “Synthetic” Drugs
Synthetic marijuana, “bath salts” and other designer drugs are now being grouped together and termed “synthetic drugs.” These synthetic drugs are meant to mimic the effects of marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines and other drugs. They are some of the most destructive drugs available today. As a whole, this category of drugs is noted for its unpredictable and toxic physical effects. The … Read More
Opioid Dependence
Like me, you may be wondering why so many talented young adults are dying of heroin overdoses. Why are they getting ‘hooked’ on opiates? This epidemic is in our neighborhoods, in the news and sadly in our hearts. A growing number of young adults are using and becoming addicted to opiates, using either heroin or prescription medications such as Oxycodone, … Read More
Marijuana, the Changing Landscape
In the last legislative session, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley signed medical marijuana (House Bill 0881) and marijuana decriminalization laws (Senate Bill 0364). Both laws go into effect on October 1, 2014. To briefly summarize Senate Bill 0364, the purpose is to alter the penalty for the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana, resulting in issuance of a civil … Read More
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Chronic alcohol or opiate abuse can cause long-lasting changes in the brain, and both cognitive and behavioral changes that result in the need to drink/use more to keep cravings and or withdrawal effects at bay. Did you know that there are medications to help balance brain chemistry, reduce cravings and block the euphoric effects of alcohol or opiates? Medication Assisted … Read More
CTC Remains Committed to Higher Education
Columbia Treatment Center has an ongoing commitment to higher education and the development of young professionals. For this reason, we have served as a training center for a number of local universities and colleges including Loyola University, Towson University, Stevenson University and Bowie State University. This year we are pleased to have three bright students from the University of Maryland … Read More
Problem Gambling and Treatment
The growth of the gambling industry has spawned new research aimed at the effects of gambling on the brain. Gambling was historically viewed as an impulse disorder, but the DSM 5 has now categorized problem gambling as an addictive disorder. Recent studies in psychology, neuroscience and genetics suggest similarities between gambling addiction and drug/alcohol addiction. In other words, Tom’s brain … Read More