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.

What You Need to Know About Body Brokering

Body brokering, a technique used by some unethical treatment centers, is illegal in many states and is intended only to line the pockets of a select few — not to heal and do the most good possible. Insurance claims for treatment at addiction treatment centers can reach tens of thousands of dollars, which can catch [...]

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MDMA Users Some Advice

The Electric Zoo Festival in New York City was cancelled early this week due to two fatal MDMA overdoses. Since then, buzz has been circling around the web as to what molly is, and what its dangers are. Here are a few pieces of advice on using MDMA. First off, don’t take it. That should be a […]

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Helping vs Enabling: How to Offer Healthy Mental Support

When someone close to you—perhaps a loved one, friend, or family member—has a mental illness, knowing how to offer support can be difficult. You want to help in the best way possible, but not enable or make the situation worse. The distinction between helping and enabling isn't always clear, so it's important to understand the [...]

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Posted on April 28, 2023October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Though mental health isn’t the top priority in the minds of most people, it is imperative to the overall health of the body. Mental health has more to do with a person’s well-being than some may like to believe. At 449 Recovery, we believe it’s all connected. We offer mental health resources and comprehensive treatment [...]

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Posted on April 10, 2023October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Eating disorders

Body Dysmorphia and Eating Disorders: Knowing the Difference

Most people have instances where they wish they had a better build or body form, particularly when they happen to see others who have spent a good deal of time in exercise and bodybuilding. For the most part, this is normal, although there are times when people experience a range of emotions from severe disappointment [...]

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Alcohol Awareness Month: A Guide to Receiving Help

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has officially appointed April as Alcohol Awareness Month. Therefore, the dawn of a new month sheds much-needed light on the importance of receiving help while highlighting the struggles of addiction. This month is intended to provide everyone with a broader understanding of the true nature of the [...]

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Posted on March 15, 2023October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
detox

Withdrawal Management 101: A Guide to Navigating Detox

Withdrawal Management 101: A Guide to Navigating Detox The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has released data stating at least 20.4 million American adults suffer from substance use disorder in 2021, and of that number, only 10.3% have received any kind of treatment for the condition. This is an alarming fact considering that in [...]

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Understanding the Cycle of Addiction

Understanding the Cycle of Addiction One of the worst ideas ever to be believed about substance abuse is that a person could "stop whenever they want to". This is not because the entire concept is just a bad cliche, or that no one simply has the willpower to quit when they are into an addiction. [...]

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Posted on February 17, 2023October 30, 2025
Dr. Barek Sharif, LMFT
Anxiety

Anxiety and Suicide: Recognizing the Warning Signs

Anxiety and Suicide: Recognizing the Warning Signs Anxiety and suicide are two serious and interrelated mental health issues that can profoundly impact a person's life. Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can range from mild to severe. Various factors, including genetics, environment, and life events can cause it. Anxiety [...]

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Alcohol and Your Immune System: How Are They Related?

Many people take vitamins every day in the hope of staying healthy. Some people take vitamin C supplements to boost their immunity. Nobody wants to engage in activities that weaken the body's immune system. You may unknowingly consume substances that tax your immune system. Is drinking alcohol and your immune system connected in some way? [...]

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