Best Addiction Medicine Doctors in Killeen

Introduction to Addiction Medicine in Killeen, Texas

Definition and scope of Addiction Medicine

Addiction Medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors. In Killeen, Texas, this field plays a significant role in addressing the complex health challenges associated with addiction.

Addiction is recognized as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a medical condition that requires specialized care and treatment.

Specialized care in treating addiction is essential because it addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. Addiction medicine specialists are trained to provide comprehensive care that may include medical management, behavioral therapies, and support for long-term recovery.

Overview of Addiction Medicine services in Killeen

Killeen, Texas offers a range of Addiction Medicine services to its residents. Based on the provided data, there are numerous professionals specializing in addiction and substance abuse counseling in the area.

The city has a diverse group of addiction specialists, including licensed professional counselors (LPCs), licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), and doctors with expertise in addiction medicine.

Treatment options in Killeen may include individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, behavioral therapy, and specialized programs for adolescents and women. Some practitioners, like Dr. Sharon Gough, also offer expertise in related areas such as psychological trauma and adolescent psychology.

Many of the listed providers offer services in English, with at least one provider, Kenyetta Walker, also offering services in Spanish, which enhances accessibility for the Spanish-speaking population in Killeen.

Choosing an Addiction Medicine Specialist in Killeen

Factors to consider when selecting a provider

Credentials and qualifications

• Review educational background
• Check for relevant certifications
• Verify state licensure

Experience in treating specific types of addiction

• Assess specialization in substance abuse counseling
• Look for expertise in behavioral addictions
• Consider experience with co-occurring disorders

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine online reviews on platforms like Healthgrades
• Consider star ratings when available
• Look for patterns in patient feedback

Accepted insurance plans

• Verify if the provider accepts your insurance
• Inquire about out-of-pocket costs
• Ask about payment plans or sliding scale fees

Overview of the doctor selection process

Researching potential providers

• Use online directories to find specialists in Killeen
• Compare provider profiles and specialties
• Create a shortlist of potential candidates

Scheduling initial consultations

• Contact providers to arrange initial meetings
• Prepare questions about treatment approaches
• Discuss availability and appointment scheduling

Evaluating personal compatibility with the doctor

• Assess communication style and empathy
• Consider the provider's approach to addiction treatment
• Trust your instincts about the provider-patient relationship

Top-Rated Addiction Medicine Specialists in Killeen

Dr. Sharon Gough, PhD

Specialties and Expertise

• Counseling
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Adolescent Psychology
• Psychological Trauma

Education and Background

• Educated at Rollins College Winter Park, Florida
• Also attended Walden University Minneapolis, Minnesota

Languages

• English

Contact Information

• Phone: (254) 953-7600
• More details available on Healthgrades profile

Kara Ludeker, LCSW

Areas of Expertise

• Social Work
• Behavioral Sleep Medicine
• Counseling
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Psychological Trauma
• Mental Health

Educational Background

• Indiana University-Purdue University At Indianapolis (Medical School, 2008)
• Ball State University (Undergraduate School, 2003)
• Saybrook University, Oakland, CA

Languages Spoken

• English

Contact Details

• Phone: (737) 587-3737
• Further information on Healthgrades profile

Kenyetta Walker, LPC

Specializations

• Counseling
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Patient Feedback

• Star rating: 1.0 out of 5 (based on 1 review)

Contact Information

• Phone: (254) 213-9649
• Additional details on Healthgrades profile

Sharon Pulattie, LMFT

Areas of Expertise

• Marriage & Family Therapy
• Counseling
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Individual Counseling
• Behavioral Therapy
• Women's Counseling
• Grief and Bereavement
• Psychological Trauma

Language Proficiency

• English

Contact Details

• Phone: (254) 501-3745
• More information available on Healthgrades profile

Willard McLemore, MS

Specialties

• Counseling
• Marriage & Family Therapy
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling

Languages

• English

Contact Information

• Phone: (254) 287-2892
• Additional details on Healthgrades profile

Additional Resources for Finding Addiction Medicine Specialists in Killeen

Online Directories and Review Platforms

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive listing of Addiction Medicine specialists in Killeen
• Access to patient reviews and ratings
• Detailed provider profiles including education and specialties

Other Reputable Healthcare Review Websites

• Websites like RateMDs, Vitals, and ZocDoc
• Comparison of different specialists' ratings and reviews
• Additional information on provider availability and services

Local Support Groups and Organizations

Addiction Recovery Support Groups in Killeen

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings
• SMART Recovery programs
• Family support groups like Al-Anon and Nar-Anon

Community Health Centers

• Central Texas Community Health Centers
• Bell County Public Health District
• Local non-profit organizations focused on addiction treatment

Referrals from Primary Care Physicians

Consulting Your Primary Care Doctor

• Discussing addiction concerns with your regular physician
• Obtaining referrals to trusted Addiction Medicine specialists
• Coordinating care between primary care and addiction treatment

Insurance Provider Networks

Checking In-Network Providers

• Contacting your insurance company for a list of covered Addiction Medicine specialists
• Understanding coverage options for addiction treatment
• Verifying in-network status of providers found through other resources