Author: Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT

Dr. Sharif is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who joined 449 Recovery in 2020 and oversees clinical operations as the Chief Clinical Officer. He earned his B.A. in Psychology and M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University and completed his Doctor of Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology. Since 2011, Dr. Sharif has been dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from co-occurring disorders, including mental health, relational, and substance use challenges. He has led workshops on family dynamics, attachment injuries, spirituality in sobriety, and the impact of trauma on relationships.

Posted on October 22, 2025October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Anxiety

How to Cope with Work Stress Before Burnout or Addiction

Popular hustle and always-on work culture can sometimes present stress as workplace staple—something to be worn like a badge of honor.

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Posted on October 21, 2025October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Trauma

How Trauma Can Lead to Substance Abuse and Recovery

Many people wonder why trauma and substance abuse often seem to go hand in hand. Trauma is an emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event.

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Posted on October 14, 2025October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Drug Addiction

Understanding How Addiction Can Affect Families Across Generations

Many families wonder if addiction can be passed down from parents to children. Questions about heredity often come up when several family members have struggled with substance use in the past.

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Why Is Drinking and Driving Bad? Understanding the Risks and Consequences

Drinking and driving is a choice that carries severe consequences—not just for the driver but for everyone on the road. Each year, nearly 10,000 Americans lose their lives in alcohol-related crashes, accounting for nearly 30% of all traffic deaths in the United States.

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Why Is Gabapentin Bad For You?

Gabapentin isn’t inherently dangerous, but it can be habit-forming for those prone to addiction. While gabapentin is a widely prescribed medication with legitimate medical uses, misuse and dependence have become increasingly common.

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Posted on March 20, 2025October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Treatment

What is a Support System in Recovery?

A support system in recovery is a network of individuals, groups, and resources that provide emotional, physical, and mental assistance during addiction recovery. This system can include family, friends, professionals, and peers who offer guidance, accountability, and encouragement to foster long-term healing and sobriety.

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Posted on February 18, 2025October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Treatment

Does Methadone Get You High?

Methadone can get you high, but its effects are much milder compared to other opioids. It is specifically designed to help people addicted to opioids by easing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it a key part of many addiction treatment programs.

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Posted on December 2, 2024October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Mental Health

How Self-Esteem and Addiction are Connected?

Addiction is a complex issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Understanding this relationship can provide valuable insights for those seeking recovery and healing.

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Posted on October 28, 2024October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Recovery

How to Stop Taking (Get Off) Suboxone

Suboxone is a medication frequently prescribed to assist individuals recovering from opioid addiction. While it can be an effective tool for many, the process of discontinuation can be challenging. It’s important to seek professional medical help for getting off of Suboxone in a healthy way that doesn’t sabotage recovery.

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Posted on October 8, 2024October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Treatment

CBT vs. DBT

When it comes to treating mental health disorders and addiction, there are many approaches therapists can take. Two of the most widely used and effective forms of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). While both therapies aim to improve emotional well-being and mental health, they differ in their methods and philosophies.

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