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.
Addiction recovery is a deeply personal journey, one that benefits from multiple approaches to healing. While traditional addiction treatment programs often focus on talk therapy, behavioral strategies, and medical support, art therapy activities for addiction recovery offer a creative, nonverbal way to explore emotions, process trauma, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Mental health doesnโt exist in a vacuumโfamily dynamics matter. Learn how involving family members and loved ones in the treatment process can improve outcomes and help rebuild connection, trust, and communication at home.
The average attention span of a human is only 8.25 seconds. This is a significant decrease from the average attention span of twelve seconds in the year 2000. This means that our attention span has decreased by a third in just two decades.
Cocaine, a powerful stimulant drug, comes from the leaves of the coca plant. While it is often used for its euphoric effects, it can also lead to serious health issues, addiction, and even death. As a white powder, cocaine is usually snorted, injected, or smoked. It can also be mixed with substances like talcum powder or baking soda to increase its strength.
Recently, social attitudes toward alcohol have shifted, and more people are now choosing to live a sober lifestyle.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are both forms of psychotherapy that are predominantly used to help treat mental health and substance use. In fact, at its core DBT is a form of CBT. As a result, they share many similarities in addition to their differences.
This guide offers helpful tips for anyone who wants to enjoy a few drinks without the negative effects of alcohol, whether you are the designated driver or have an early morning.
This prescription medication is commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. However, its effects on the body go beyond simply increasing focus and concentration.
For decades, smoking has been debated, and many studies link it to various health issues. People often wonder if smoking affects testosterone levels, and the answer isn't simple.
Every May, Mental Health Awareness Month is a time for people to unite, learn about mental health, and support those with mental health challenges.