In July, our very own Dr. Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S, was interviewed by AddoRecovery.com. We discussed his work at Paradise Creek Recovery Center and his achievements in the mental health space.
Addo Recovery involves a network of sex addiction therapists across the United States. Its mission is to flood the earth with specialized resources accessible at the pace therapists need them. As a result, Addo Recovery provides research, training courses, therapist Q&As, intensive training workshops, and professional support for sex addiction therapists.
In this article, you'll get to know a little more about Dr. Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S.
Question (Addo Recovery): How long have you been involved in providing treatment for those who suffer from trauma or sexual compulsion?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): I have been treating those who suffer from trauma or sexual compulsivity for over 20 years. I've held over 40,000 sessions. I also provide supervision for therapists who are training to be sex addiction therapists.
Question (Addo Recovery): What has been your secret to helping men reach and stay in recovery?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): We use a combination of Cognitive-Neural Restructuring Therapy. It facilitates change at the cellular level of the brain. Likewise, we use a Task-Centered Approach designed by Dr. Patrick Carnes, PhD., the pioneer of sexual addiction treatment. When done correctly, combining these two models helps provide the patient with concrete recovery strategies. As a result, we may help facilitate sobriety and achieve long-term changes on a biological, psychological, social, emotional, and spiritual level.
Question (Addo Recovery): Do you have experience treating clients in an inpatient treatment-type setting?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): Yes, I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatment center settings.
Question (Addo Recovery): For those readers who are not familiar with your residential treatment center, what is Paradise Creek Recovery Center?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): Paradise Creek specializes in the treatment of sexual compulsivity disorders for adult men. It provides a home-like environment, offering safety and peace. As a result, patients are able to reflect and engage in a treatment plan designed specifically for them.
Paradise Creek Recovery Center is on a 16-acre campus located in Raft River Valley, Idaho. Men who attend treatment here cut all the anchors that hold them back from true freedom. For example, these anchors may include abuse, childhood trauma, death, divorce, or out-of-control sexual behaviors. Addressing each of these can lead to healing and freedom.
Paradise Creek Recovery Center has a treatment team with 34 years of experience in treating sexual issues. When a man enters our facility, they participate in 12-step meetings, therapeutic-based exercises, and experiential groups. Likewise, treatment may include activities such as ropes courses, fireside experiences, artistic expression groups, and music therapy.
Question (Addo Recovery): What tools have you found to be useful for treating your patients?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): Both bio and neurofeedback are useful tools in helping patients resolve their trauma issues and addictions. Likewise, I am trained in providing EMDR, which is a highly successful approach to help clients heal from traumatic histories.
Question (Addo Recovery): For new therapists just entering into their careers. What advice would you give them to have a successful career in the mental health industry?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): If you plan to provide individual and group therapy for addictive disorders, get involved in ongoing training. It is essential to stay on the cutting edge of addiction and trauma treatment.
Question (Addo Recovery): Just one more question: What activities do you enjoy in your free time?
Answer (Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S): I enjoy any opportunity to help people. In addition, I enjoy running both half and full marathons.
Dr. Matthew Hedelius, thank you for your time today. It was a pleasure speaking with you. If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Hedelius or the Paradise Creek Recovery Center services, please call (855) 442-1912.
