A solution focused therapist with over a decade in the helping services, I am attuned to the broad expanse of holistic recovery. My mission is inspired by the work of Joseph Campbell, Dr. Wayne Dyer, and Fr. Joseph Martin. I am well versed in the specific needs of the recovery community and am trained in EMDR.
Articles by Christopher Schwartfigure MS, LGPC, CAC-AD
![Innovative Approaches in Treating Alcoholism](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MarylandRecovery_Human_Brain_Model_Holding_Whiskey_Bottle-624x333.jpg)
Innovative Approaches in Treating Alcoholism: A Modern Perspective
Addressing alcohol use disorders can be complex. See how implementing modern, innovative approaches to treating AUD can lead to success.
![The Benefits of Long-Term Rehab Programs](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MarylangRecovery_Woman_Studying_Laptop-624x333.jpg)
![The Benefits of Long-Term Rehab Programs](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MarylangRecovery_Woman_Studying_Laptop-624x333.jpg)
![The Benefits of Long-Term Rehab Programs](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MarylangRecovery_Woman_Studying_Laptop-624x333.jpg)
The Benefits of Long-Term Rehab Programs
Most anyone who has ever experienced a substance use disorder (SUD), whether personally or via a friend or family member, is aware that there is no quick, convenient cure. Substance use can actually cause changes in the body and brain, which become reliant on substances to function. For that reason, the most effective treatments for […]
![Dual Diagnosis for Comprehensive Treatments](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MarylangRecovery_Woman_Therapist-624x333.jpg)
![Dual Diagnosis for Comprehensive Treatments](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MarylangRecovery_Woman_Therapist-624x333.jpg)
![Dual Diagnosis for Comprehensive Treatments](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MarylangRecovery_Woman_Therapist-624x333.jpg)
Dual Diagnosis: Mental Health and Addiction
Nearly 40% of Americans who struggle with substance use disorders also have a mental health disorder. Unfortunately, treating only substance use and the physical effects it causes does not truly address the many facets that link SUD and associated mental health disorders. That’s why acknowledging dual diagnoses and developing treatment to address both the addiction […]
![The Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Maryland-Blog-Post-most-abused-prescriptions-624x328.png)
![The Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Maryland-Blog-Post-most-abused-prescriptions-624x328.png)
![The Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Maryland-Blog-Post-most-abused-prescriptions-624x328.png)
The Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
Pharmaceutical medications were created in hopes of improving the lives of people suffering from a wide range of diseases, disorders, and conditions. Unfortunately, many of the same medications that are intended to provide relief from physical pain and mental health afflictions can become the source of a prescription drug addiction. Around 16 million Americans misuse […]
![Unique Approach to Outpatient Addiction Treatment](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MarylandRecovery_IOP_Featured-624x329.jpg)
![Unique Approach to Outpatient Addiction Treatment](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MarylandRecovery_IOP_Featured-624x329.jpg)
![Unique Approach to Outpatient Addiction Treatment](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MarylandRecovery_IOP_Featured-624x329.jpg)
A Unique Approach To Residential Outpatient Addiction Treatment
Just like each person who experiences substance use disorder, addiction is complex and unique. It can emerge differently, affects individuals differently, and must be treated with a personalized solution – there is no one-size-fits-all approach to substance use disorder. That’s why at Maryland Recovery, our outpatient addiction program features a unique, individualized approach that can […]
![Fentanyl and Overdose](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MaryLand_Fentanyl-624x328.jpg)
![Fentanyl and Overdose](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MaryLand_Fentanyl-624x328.jpg)
![Fentanyl and Overdose](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MaryLand_Fentanyl-624x328.jpg)
Fentanyl and Overdose
Fentanyl is a drug that is used clinically to treat patients who are experiencing high levels of pain, such as cancer patients. While there are many benefits that Fentanyl can bring to the table regarding pain relief it can also be an extremely dangerous substance. It is fairly easy for the body to become dependent […]
![Interesting and Alarming Facts About Opioids](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MarylandRecovery_Opioid-USA_Featured-624x329.jpg)
![Interesting and Alarming Facts About Opioids](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MarylandRecovery_Opioid-USA_Featured-624x329.jpg)
![Interesting and Alarming Facts About Opioids](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MarylandRecovery_Opioid-USA_Featured-624x329.jpg)
Interesting and Alarming Facts About Opioids
In 2017, the United States government declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency and made moves to curtail drug use among citizens. Since then, however, the misuse of opioids has become even more prevalent among Americans. The word “misuse” is important because many people begin taking opioids when a doctor prescribes them for pain […]
![Overcoming addiction step by step](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MaryLand_OvercomingAddiction_Header-624x328.jpg)
![Overcoming addiction step by step](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MaryLand_OvercomingAddiction_Header-624x328.jpg)
![Overcoming addiction step by step](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MaryLand_OvercomingAddiction_Header-624x328.jpg)
What Are Ways to Overcome Addiction?
Taking that first step in admitting you have a problem with substances – and the second step of asking for help – can be both the most difficult yet most rewarding decisions you can make in your life. Addiction, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), can negatively impact your relationships, your physical and mental […]
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Maryland Recovery is Accepting Donations on Behalf of The HOPE Center
For the current school year, The HOPE Center of Maryland will provide 100-weekend meal bags to at-risk children attending Bakerfield and Deerfield Elementary Schools and Edgewood Middle School. That comes to 4,400 meal bags or 26,400 meals provided. Donations can be dropped off in our conference room at 21 W. Courtland St. Bel Air, Md. […]
![Maryland Prescription Drug Abuse](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Maryland-Recovery_Drug-Take-Back-_Featured-624x328.jpg)
![Maryland Prescription Drug Abuse](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Maryland-Recovery_Drug-Take-Back-_Featured-624x328.jpg)
![Maryland Prescription Drug Abuse](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Maryland-Recovery_Drug-Take-Back-_Featured-624x328.jpg)
National Prescription Drug Take Back Is Around the Corner
In the United States, prescription drug abuse is rampant throughout the country. It’s unfortunate how many lives are lost every single day, and sometimes it’s hard not to feel hopeless about the state of prescription drug abuse in America. However, there is good news. States are starting to take measures to prevent the continuation of […]
![Talking with Your Children: Tips for Preparing for Rehab](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Maryland-Recovery_Children-Rehab_Featured-624x328.jpg)
![Talking with Your Children: Tips for Preparing for Rehab](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Maryland-Recovery_Children-Rehab_Featured-624x328.jpg)
![Talking with Your Children: Tips for Preparing for Rehab](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Maryland-Recovery_Children-Rehab_Featured-624x328.jpg)
How to Have a Conversation With Your Children Before Starting Addiction Treatment
Choosing to begin treatment for a substance use disorder is a significant first step toward recovery. This isn’t an easy decision to make, but seeking treatment can help you establish a new, healthy, positive way of life. If you have children, the next important step is to help prepare them for what is ahead. As […]
![Recovery Support Groups](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/MarylandRecovery_AA_Alt_Featured-624x329.jpg)
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![Recovery Support Groups](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/MarylandRecovery_AA_Alt_Featured-624x329.jpg)
Recovery Support Groups: Alternatives to AA and 12-Step Meetings
During and after recovery from addiction, support groups are necessary. These groups give those recovering from addiction a formal support system or network. Active participation in these groups can reduce the rate of relapse and encourage commitment to recovery. Group members provide support and friendship to others who have suffered from the same addictions. Group […]
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![Suboxone](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MarylandRecovery_Buprenorphine_Featured-624x329.jpg)
Suboxone for Long-Term Addiction Recovery
Suboxone can be an important recovery tool for many people experiencing opioid use disorder, or OUD. Suboxone is frequently utilized as a component of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program to cease opioid use, along with other medications like naltrexone or morphine. The FDA has approved these three medications for opioid use disorder MAT, but Suboxone […]
![The State of Addiction and Recovery in Maryland](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Maryland-Recovery_Addiction-in-Maryland_Featured-624x328.jpg)
![The State of Addiction and Recovery in Maryland](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Maryland-Recovery_Addiction-in-Maryland_Featured-624x328.jpg)
![The State of Addiction and Recovery in Maryland](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Maryland-Recovery_Addiction-in-Maryland_Featured-624x328.jpg)
The State of Addiction and Recovery in Maryland
Addiction in Maryland is an ongoing issue, and studies show that over 2,000 individuals died from a fatal overdose in Maryland over the past year. While substance use disorders of all types continue to plague the citizens of Maryland, fentanyl has recently emerged as the unequivocal leader in overdose deaths. During the peak of the […]
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![Long-Term Recovery](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Maryland-Recovery_Long-Term-Recovery_Featured-624x328.jpg)
Tips for Long-Term Addiction Recovery
With a few key strategies, people seeking long-term recovery from SUD can continue to live successful and meaningful lives free from the weight of SUD. It’s worth noting that the process of healing is rarely straightforward. People experience frustration, anger, temptation, and even loneliness alongside the joy and peace recovery can bring. Sometimes, people even […]
![Differences Between Vivitrol and Suboxone](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Maryland-Recovery_Vivitrol-vs-Suboxone_Featured-624x328.jpg)
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![Differences Between Vivitrol and Suboxone](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Maryland-Recovery_Vivitrol-vs-Suboxone_Featured-624x328.jpg)
Differences Between Vivitrol and Suboxone
Suboxone and Vivitrol are both effective medications used to treat substance use disorders (SUDs). Many healthcare professionals, rehab facilities, and other SUD treatment programs use both medications frequently while treating patients with SUD. These medications must be used in conjunction with a broader treatment plan that includes psychotherapy, counseling, and other therapies, as there is […]
![Maryland Recovery is Celebrating Ten Years](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/1-624x328.jpg)
![Maryland Recovery is Celebrating Ten Years](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/1-624x328.jpg)
![Maryland Recovery is Celebrating Ten Years](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/1-624x328.jpg)
Maryland Recovery Celebrates Ten Years!
Maryland Recovery has worked diligently to provide reliable mental health and substance use treatments to hundreds of patients across Maryland. Today, we’re proud to announce that we’ve been helping clients find recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) for ten years! Over the past decade, we’ve met scores of individuals struggling with the effects of SUD, […]