“Healing and sobriety are possible for anyone.”

The purpose of this introduction is to acquaint the reader with the field of addiction medicine and with Dr. Masters’ approach to the care of patients. The diagnosis and treatment of addicts and alcoholics involves a systematic approach which addresses the biological, psychological, spiritual, familial, and social components of the disease. Owing to the multiple systems involved, a team approach is necessary. The result is an ongoing collaboration within a treatment team which includes the patient, the family, the addiction medicine physician, a psychotherapist, and various support groups (e.g. twelve step groups or small group therapy).

The addiction medicine physician is typically involved from the outset in terms of the immediate management of detoxification in either an inpatient or outpatient setting. Following detoxification, the real work of early recovery ensues and the physician continues to monitor the patient’s progress and to screen for concurrent illnesses. Dr. Masters provides both inpatient and outpatient care. Some of the services provided include: the use of medications to control cravings; the diagnosis and treatment of concurrent disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder; the evaluation of progress within a twelve step group; Suboxone induction and maintenance for opiate addiction; referral to psychiatrists for complicated cases of dual diagnosis; and referral of patients for individual or group therapy.

This website is dedicated to the proposition that “healing and sobriety are possible for anyone” and that “awareness is curative.” To that end, Dr. Masters has populated the site with a variety of articles that address the common concerns and misconceptions that belabor both patients and family members. The website continues to be a work in progress and the reader is encouraged to re-visit periodically as new material is added.