Medical and Behavioral Addiction: Holistic and Integrated Approaches to Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Dr. Beau A. Nelson, DBH, LCSW

Chief Clinical Officer FHE Health, Deerfield Beach, Florida

Often addiction treatment focuses on treating the behavioral aspects of a person's well being. Yet at the heart of the process we must also pay attention to the social, spiritual and medical needs of the whole person. This is the heart of an Integrated approach to addiction, recovery and mental health. 

Mental health and addiction are often considered psychological or brain related conditions. It's true that your brain and central nervous system have a major impact on these disorders and the health and function of the rest of the body must also be treated simultaneously. Not only do physical ailments manifest as symptoms that can confuse mental health diagnosis but the symptoms caused by mental health issues and addiction may cause medical issues that must be addressed to create a strong baseline.  benchmark medical care addresses the changes that have likely occurred in the body as a result of substance abuse anxiety depression or other mental health conditions. For example years of drinking may cost damage to the stomach lining. Without a full treatment plan for gastrointestinal pain the patient is suffering they are more likely to continue seeking and elicit relief. The brain changes physically and chemically under substance abuse. Dependency on external chemicals makes it impossible to simply stop using drugs or alcohol without intense pain and withdrawal.  static effects of withdrawal cascade outward from the brain as it communicates to other organs in the body. These organs are also struggling with the limited access to chemistry they now depend on and the results can be devastating.  

Learning Objectives: Participants will

1.    Articulate 4 key pillars of integrated, whole person care
2.    Describe 3 advanced benefits of a Neuro-Rehabilitative approach to addiction
3.    Explain the connections between psychological medical and addiction support
4.    Describe 5 medical complications arising from drug abuse
5.    Explain 7 key “whole person” interventions for wellness during drug and alcohol recovery

2.0 CEU Hours

Dr. Beau A. Nelson, DBH, LCSW

Dr. Nelson is a passionate advocate for quality mental health and substance abuse treatment. As Chief Clinical Officer at FHE Health, a nationally recognized behavioral health treatment provider, he ensures quality, innovation, and comprehensive treatment for patients. Dr. Nelson has worked in the behavioral health field for more than 22 years. He has served as a clinical director, clinician, and supervisor for mental health programs in acute, sub-acute, and outpatient facilities, and in primary care. He has devoted his life to improving the professional practice as a professor, professional development instructor, consultant, clinical supervisor, and internship supervisor working with many universities and colleges. He is also a widely recognized speaker, writer, and community advocate for mental health and substance abuse innovation in healthcare. He works closely with government entities, unions, employers, and community organizations to meet the behavioral health needs of their communities. He is also dedicated to working with first responders and addressing their unique needs through education, trainings, and crisis response. Dr. Nelson is a Doctor of Behavioral Health and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is a Board Approved Supervisor in Florida and Texas. He specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Integrated Behavioral Healthcare, maximizing medical, psychiatric, Neuroscience, and clinical interventions for maximum benefit.

 Proudly Sponsored by:

John Davis, President