Xanax Dependency

The Hidden Epidemic of Prescription Drug Abuse Xanax is a powerful benzodiazepine that is often prescribed to treat sleeplessness, panic disorders, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and similar problems. Despite its therapeutic benefits, its high potential for addiction and abuse makes Xanax a cause for serious concern. In 2021, roughly 14% of opioid overdose deaths also … Read more

Fentanyl Exposure Symptoms

Fentanyl Exposure and Overdose Symptoms The opioid crisis in the United States is well-known. Fentanyl, a synthetic form of this class of drugs, is one of the deadliest. At around 50 times stronger than heroin, it accounts for a significant amount of both fatal and non-fatal overdoses. Whether intentional or unintentional, fentanyl exposure can result … Read more

Is Percocet an Opiate?

All About Percocet Percocet is the brand name of a narcotic combination analgesic legally available only by prescription. Especially over the past few years, counterfeit products resembling Percocet and its generic equivalents have been sold on the black market. These products often contain the far more powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl, disguised as pills illegally pressed … Read more

How Long Does a 12 Step Program Take?

The Time Frame of a 12-Step Program Several factors play a role in how long it takes to complete a 12-step program if you are suffering from substance use disorder (SUD). Not every person or situation is the same, and in mild cases, it can take up to 90 days. For severe cases, it can … Read more

What is The 12th Step of AA

Embracing Recovery: Understanding the 12th Step of Alcoholics Anonymous Alcohol addiction is a complex challenge that affects individuals from all walks of life. It can lead to significant personal, social, and legal problems, impacting not only the individuals struggling with addiction but also their families and communities. Among the various support systems available, Alcoholics Anonymous … Read more

Does Heroin Cause Diabetes?

Does Heroin Use Cause Diabetes? Heroin does not cause diabetes. What heroin does do, however, is create what’s known as hyperinsulinemia. This is a state where there is too much insulin in the blood even without glucose intolerance. According to the Mayo Clinic, the treatment is simply to treat the problem that’s causing the hyperinsulinemia. … Read more

Does Heroin Affect the Brain?

How Does Heroin Use and Addiction Affect the Brain? Heroin, also known as diamorphine or diacetylmorphine, is an opioid substance made from the opium poppy. This substance harms the brain and the body and has been labeled an illegal or controlled substance in several countries worldwide. Heroin is an addictive substance that can lead to … Read more

Can I Take Opioids With Gabapentin?

Mixing Opioids With Gabapentin Opioid abuse is a major problem in the United States. Out of every 550 people who use opioids on a chronic basis, one of them passes away within 2.5 years of receiving the first opioid prescription. Many of these deaths come as a result of mixing opioids with other medications. One … Read more

How Do Painkillers Know Where the Pain Is?

How Do Painkillers Pinpoint Pain? From mild over-the-counter analgesics to the powerful drugs administered during surgical procedures, all painkillers have a few things in common. They work by blocking the neural pathways that cause pain, but have you ever wondered why they only seem to work on the affected area? Why doesn’t your entire body … Read more

Dangers of Opioids While Pregnant

Understanding the Dangers of Opioids While Pregnant Opioid abuse is destructive to anyone, but it can have devastating effects on a fetus during pregnancy. An expectant mother who currently takes prescription or non-prescription opioids may be unaware of how these drugs can impact her unborn child; learning the effects, risks, and importance of getting treatment … Read more

Steven Barry

Steven Barry holds a B.A. in Economics from Bates College with extensive professional experience in both financial and municipal management. In his role as Director of Outreach, Steve leads the Charles River team in fostering relationships across the recovery community, local cities and towns, labor partners, and serving as a general resource for anyone seeking help.

Steve’s Charles River Why – “Anything I have ever done in my professional career has been rooted in helping people.  There is no more direct correlate to that end than assisting people find their path to reclaim their life from the grips of addiction”. 

Jillian Martin
Jillian Martin, the Director of Clinical Services, brings over 15 years of experience in behavioral healthcare and more than a decade in national executive clinical leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from Concordia College in Bronxville, NY, combining psychology and sociology, and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Eastern Nazarene College. Licensed as an LADC I and LMHC, she is also EMDR-trained. Her diverse background spans patient care in various settings, including inpatient treatment for underserved populations, utilizing an eclectic approach and innovative therapies to enhance patient experiences across levels of care. Jillian enjoys planning adventures, living life to the fullest, and spending quality time with her son.