Stephen Colameco, MD, M.Ed., FASAM
Fellow, American Society of Addiction Medicine
Certified, American Board of Addiction Medicine
Daniel J. Zimmerman, MD
Certified, American Board of Addiction Medicine
Larry Pettis, MD
Member, American Society of Addiction Medicine
Dr. Colameco
Blog
Addiction Pain Associates
Addiction pain Associates is a group independent physician practices dedication to helping patients and their families recover from drug or alcohol addiction. Addiction is a complex bio-behavioral disorder that usually requires specialty care and Addiction Pain Associates is the only addiction medicine specialty group in the area. Our physicians receive referrals from treatment programs, physicians, counselors, county agencies, and professional assistance programs. We strive to follow "best practice" guidelines as promulgated by government agencies (e.g. SAMHSA) and professional organizations. Scientific evidence supports our belief that many patients require both medical and behavioral approaches for successful treatment.
Medication-assisted Treatment
While medication alone does not lead to recovery, it is often a crucial component in the treatment plan. Studies have show that adding medication to counseling and support group participation significantly improves outcomes. FDA approved medication for addiction treatment include buprenorphine, naltrexone and acamprosate. Our physicians have been prescribing buprenorphine (Suboxone ®) since 1993 and have published articles about Suboxone® treatment in peer reviewed journals. Since many individuals with addiction also suffer from other mental health problems, our physicians prescribe medication for anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, attention deficit and bipolar disorders. With proper medication management, patients can more actively engage in behavioral treatments.
Behavioral Treatments
Our physicians provide individual and group counseling. Counseling focuses on recognizing areas of impaired function and emphasizes the need to change beliefs and behavior. Counseling helps patients develop the coping strategies and tools needed for recovery. Our physicians are well-versed in the 12-Step philosophy and facilitate active participation in support groups. We also collaborate in the care of patients who are receiving behavioral treatment from area therapists or outpatient treatment programs.
Publications
Our physicians have published on topics related to chronic pain and addiction. 12 Steps for Those Afflicted with Chronic Pain is a guide to recovery from emotional and spiritual suffering. Read more about this book and medical journal articles authored by our physicians.