Victoria Shaw, MS, LPC, CAADC
Victoria Shaw writes about mental health, substance use and co-occurring disorders for MPower Wellness. Her writing draws on her clinical work in inpatient and outpatient treatment. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and she holds a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Victoria started at MPower as a clinician, running individual and group therapy for clients with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, mood and personality disorders, OCD, emotional dysregulation, and substance use disorders. Her articles use the same evidence-based approaches she uses in treatment, including CBT, DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed, person-centered care.
While some people view addiction as a moral failing or a lack of willpower, others argue that it is a disease that requires medical treatment.
Substance use amongst teens varies. Learn about the statistics of substance use in teens within the United States.
Substance abuse is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Not only does it have a detrimental effect on a person's mental and physical health, but it can also lead to serious heart damage, disease, and complications.
Drug use during pregnancy is a controversial topic that has been debated for decades. While some people believe that certain drugs can be used safely during pregnancy, others argue that even the most harmless substances can cause harm to the developing fetus.
It's no secret that people have been using drugs for centuries to alter their mood and feel good. While some drugs are legal and widely accepted, others are illegal and can have severe consequences.
One of the concerns that has been raised in recent years is whether or not marijuana use during pregnancy or early childhood can cause autism.
Drug addiction is a complex and challenging issue that affects millions of people worldwide. If someone you care about is struggling with addiction, it can be tough to know how to help them.
Dopamine is a chemical messenger that influences motivation, mood, movement, and the brainโs reward pathway. When dopamine levels become too low, a person may feel unmotivated, emotionally overwhelmed, or disconnected, which can increase the risk of substance abuse as the brain searches for a quick boost in dopamine release. Recognizing these patterns is an important first step toward effective dopamine deficiency treatment. At MPower Wellness, we help individuals understand dopamine-related symptoms and address the link between low dopamine levels and addiction with compassionate, evidence-based support.
Alcohol can cause a range of disorders, both physical and mental. Explore the various disorders that can be caused by alcohol and the effects they have on the body.
Many people struggle with the question, โWhy am I depressed for no reason?โ In this article, we will explore the various factors that can contribute to depression, including genetics, brain chemistry, life events, and more.โ