Dr. Aaron VanGaver is a Naturopathic Doctor working with addicted people in downtown Vancouver, BC. He treats many of the people that we would classify as "classic addicts", but Aaron himself is also a living breathing example that addiction affects every population, even doctors. 

Aaron has his own story of losing connection with himself, finding drugs as a solution, and then finding recovery and reconnection through a series of divine events. He now works exclusively with addicts in early recovery. He is a doctor working with the body, but also a counsellor, and a coach. 

Aaron uses IV drips, vitamins, and amino acids to help the detoxification process. This can also can treat the post-acute-withdrawal symptoms, depression, and anhedonia that can accompany early recovery.

The biggest gift Aaron carries is the counselling he offers around shame, trauma, self-esteem, and most importantly, working with people on identifying their life's purpose. This unconventional approach gives his clients something to live for. 

"I truly believe everyone has got a gift to give the world." -Dr. VanGaver

Aaron is on a mission to change how people talk about and understand addiction. He wants to reduce the stigma about addiction in our culture. 

In this episode we cover:

• Aaron's story of addiction and recovery
• HALT protocol - Hungry Angry Lonely Tired
• IV Vitamin Therapy
• Advanced IV Protocols for Addiction Recovery
• "The Shadow" and how it controls us
• How long it takes a brain to heal from Crystal Meth addiction
• Using psychedelics to addiction
• The Magic Bullet for treating addiction
• The importance of human connection in recovery - Rat Park
• How to deal with a family member who is addicted

Check out Dr. VanGaver's website 

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