As healthcare professionals, we understand that substance use disorder (SUD) represents one of the most complex medical conditions affecting our communities. The neurobiological foundations of addiction require sophisticated, evidence-based interventions that address both the scientific understanding of brain dysfunction and the deeply human aspects of healing. CenterPointe Recovery Services in Sarasota, Florida, offers a unique integrative approach that bridges this critical gap through what they term “brain-based + heart-centered” treatment.
The Clinical Rationale for Integrated Addiction Treatment
Current neuroscience research consistently demonstrates that substance use disorders fundamentally alter brain structure and function across multiple neural networks.
The prefrontal cortex, responsible for executive decision-making, shows marked dysfunction, while reward pathways become dysregulated, creating the neurobiological substrate for compulsive use behaviors. Traditional talk therapy approaches, while essential, may not fully address these underlying neurological changes that perpetuate addictive behaviors.
The integrative model employed at CenterPointe Recovery Services recognizes that effective addiction treatment must simultaneously target neurobiological dysregulation while providing comprehensive psychosocial support. This dual approach aligns with current evidence suggesting that multi-modal interventions produce superior long-term outcomes compared to single-modality treatments.
Identifying Appropriate Referral Candidates
Healthcare professionals should consider referral to CenterPointe’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for patients who meet the following clinical criteria:
Primary Referral Indicators
• Individuals with substance use disorder who require structured treatment but can maintain essential life responsibilities
• Patients transitioning from residential treatment who need continued intensive support
• Clients with co-occurring mental health conditions requiring integrated treatment approaches
• Individuals who have not responded optimally to traditional outpatient therapy alone
• Patients seeking evidence-based treatment with complementary modalities
Clinical Complexity Factors
CenterPointe’s integrative approach particularly benefits patients presenting with:
• Treatment-resistant cases requiring innovative therapeutic modalities
• Trauma histories that may benefit from somatic interventions
• Executive function deficits that could respond to neurofeedback training
• Patients expressing preference for holistic, whole-person treatment approaches
• Individuals who value dignity-preserving treatment environments
Considering referral for a complex case? Professional consultation available. Call (941) 488-4811.
CenterPointe’s Unique Clinical Differentiators
Evidence-Based Foundation
CenterPointe’s treatment protocol incorporates established therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training, and Motivational Interviewing. These evidence-based approaches form the clinical foundation upon which complementary modalities are integrated.
Neurofeedback Integration
A distinguishing feature of CenterPointe’s approach involves the integration of neurofeedback therapy. While FDA-approved for relaxation training, emerging research suggests neurofeedback may support addiction recovery by improving brain self-regulation capabilities. This non-invasive intervention addresses the neurobiological aspects of addiction that traditional talk therapy may not fully reach. The neurofeedback component is presented as a complementary modality enhancing overall treatment effectiveness rather than a standalone intervention.
CranioSacral Therapy Component
CenterPointe incorporates CranioSacral Therapy (CST), recognizing the interconnection between physical tension, trauma storage, and recovery processes. This somatic approach complements traditional psychotherapy by addressing the physiological aspects of stress and trauma that may contribute to addictive behaviors.
Clinical Leadership Excellence
Carrie Phelps, LMHC, LMT, CST-T, brings over 30 years of clinical experience with unique multidisciplinary credentials. Her Licensed Mental Health Counselor credential ensures adherence to clinical standards, while her Licensed Massage Therapist and CranioSacral Therapist training enables comprehensive mind-body integration rarely found in addiction treatment settings.
Professional Collaboration Framework
Initial Consultation Process
CenterPointe maintains an open-door policy for professional consultations. Referring providers can schedule confidential discussions to review patient appropriateness for the program, discuss treatment planning and expected outcomes, establish communication protocols for ongoing coordination, and clarify insurance verification and financial considerations. These consultations provide an opportunity for collaborative decision-making that respects both the referring provider’s clinical judgment and the patient’s unique needs.
Coordinated Care Protocols
CenterPointe recognizes that effective addiction treatment requires seamless integration with referring providers’ ongoing care. Their collaborative approach ensures regular progress updates determined collaboratively with each referring provider, 24-hour professional contact availability for crisis communication, coordinated discharge planning for continuity of care, and medication management collaboration with prescribing providers. Treatment plan integration incorporates referring provider goals while respecting existing therapeutic relationships, with coordination extending to psychiatric and medical care for co-occurring conditions.
Integration with Medical and Psychiatric Care
CenterPointe’s integrative model recognizes that addiction rarely occurs in isolation from other medical and psychiatric conditions. Their dual diagnosis approach provides simultaneous treatment of substance use disorders and mental health conditions, integrating psychiatric medication management with behavioral interventions when clinically appropriate, while maintaining trauma-informed care principles throughout treatment. Medical collaboration ensures safe management of withdrawal symptoms when indicated, coordination with pain management specialists and primary care providers, and specialized attention to medical consequences of substance use.
The MindSpa Environment Advantage
CenterPointe’s partnership with MindSpa creates a unique therapeutic environment that supports the healing process through dignity-preserving, spa-like settings. The luxury, non-institutional setting helps reduce shame and stigma often associated with addiction treatment, potentially improving treatment engagement and retention. The serene environment supports parasympathetic nervous system activation, creating optimal conditions for learning and behavioral change while facilitating stronger therapeutic relationships—a critical factor in treatment success.
Communication and Follow-Up Protocols
Referral Process
1. Initial Contact: Referring providers contact CenterPointe for consultation
2. Assessment Scheduling: Comprehensive intake assessment scheduled within 48-72 hours
3. Treatment Planning: Individualized treatment plan developed with referring provider input
4. Ongoing Communication: Regular updates provided per established protocols
Professional Support Services
Beyond individual patient referrals, CenterPointe offers comprehensive support services for referring professionals. These include case consultation services for complex presentations, educational resources on integrative addiction treatment approaches, networking opportunities with other healthcare providers, and continuing education opportunities in addiction treatment innovations. This commitment to professional development strengthens the broader healthcare community’s capacity to address substance use disorders effectively.
Evidence-Based Outcomes Considerations
While individual outcomes vary significantly, emerging research suggests that intensive outpatient programs with integrative approaches may support improved treatment retention and long-term recovery maintenance. CenterPointe’s multi-modal approach aligns with evidence suggesting that addressing addiction through multiple therapeutic channels enhances overall treatment effectiveness.
Factors Supporting Positive Outcomes
Research identifies several key factors that support positive treatment outcomes in intensive outpatient programs. Early intervention and treatment engagement establish the foundation for recovery, while the development of a strong therapeutic alliance between patient and clinician creates the trust necessary for meaningful change. Family involvement and support system activation extend the therapeutic benefits beyond the treatment setting, providing ongoing reinforcement of recovery behaviors. Integration with ongoing medical and psychiatric care ensures that all aspects of the patient’s health are addressed in a coordinated manner. Finally, CenterPointe’s commitment to evidence-based practice modifications based on individual response ensures that treatment plans remain dynamic and responsive to each patient’s unique progress and challenges.
Realistic Expectations Framework
Healthcare professionals should understand that addiction treatment represents a process rather than an event. Setbacks and relapses are common and should be viewed as opportunities for treatment plan modification rather than treatment failures. CenterPointe’s approach emphasizes learning from challenges and adjusting interventions accordingly.
Local Healthcare Community Integration
CenterPointe maintains strong connections within the Sarasota and Venice healthcare communities, with convenient locations serving both Sarasota (primary facility at MindSpa) and Venice throughout South Sarasota County. Active community engagement includes participation in local medical society initiatives, healthcare provider education programs, and professional referral network development with area hospitals and clinics.
Making the Referral Decision
When considering referral to CenterPointe Recovery Services, healthcare professionals should evaluate patient readiness (motivation for change, ability to participate in intensive outpatient structure, willingness to explore integrative approaches), clinical appropriateness (severity requiring intensive intervention, co-occurring conditions, previous treatment response, geographic accessibility), and professional compatibility factors (alignment with holistic approaches, openness to collaborative coordination, insurance coverage verification). These considerations ensure appropriate referrals likely to result in positive therapeutic outcomes.
Taking the Next Step
CenterPointe Recovery Services welcomes dialogue with healthcare professionals considering referral options for their patients. Their commitment to evidence-based practice, combined with innovative complementary modalities, creates unique opportunities for patients who may benefit from integrative addiction treatment approaches.
To initiate a professional consultation or discuss potential referral appropriateness, healthcare providers can contact CenterPointe Recovery Services at (941) 488-4811. Our team serves patients from both our Sarasota and Venice locations, ensuring convenient access for your patients throughout South Sarasota County. Carrie Phelps, LMHC, LMT, CST-T, and her clinical team are available to discuss how their brain-based + heart-centered approach may complement your ongoing treatment efforts.
The complexity of addiction requires sophisticated, multi-dimensional treatment approaches that honor both the scientific understanding of brain dysfunction and the deeply human aspects of healing. CenterPointe’s integrative model offers healthcare professionals a collaborative partner in addressing one of medicine’s most challenging conditions through evidence-based innovation and compassionate care.
Professional Consultation Information
CenterPointe Recovery Services
Phone: (941) 488-4811
Location: 5632 Bee Ridge Road, Unit 101, Sarasota, FL 34233 (at MindSpa facility)
Location: 425 Commercial Ct. Suite I, Venice, FL 34292 (serving South Sarasota County)
Clinical Director: Carrie Phelps, LMHC, LMT, CST-T
Professional Referral Line: Available for immediate consultation
Professional Scope Notice: This information is provided for healthcare professional education and referral consideration. CenterPointe Recovery Services operates under Florida state licensing requirements. Professional collaboration and communication protocols are established in accordance with applicable state regulations and scope of practice guidelines.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition or treatment options.