Cocaine addiction is a serious and often fast-progressing condition that affects individuals and families across Maryland. Known for its short-lived highs and long-term consequences, cocaine can quickly take over a person’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
As overdose rates and stimulant misuse rise, the need for substance abuse treatment services is more urgent than ever. [1]
Evidence-based care for cocaine addiction is available, with treatment plans that address both substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions through a comprehensive dual-diagnosis approach. Whether inpatient rehab or flexible outpatient care is needed, these Maryland-based programs are built to promote long-term healing and lasting recovery.
Cocaine is a fast-acting stimulant drug that changes the way the brain works. It boosts levels of a chemical called dopamine, which creates a short-lived feeling of energy and euphoria.[2]
Once the high fades, it can leave people feeling anxious, tired, or craving more. Over time, repeated use of cocaine can make it harder for the brain to feel good naturally.
There are two main types of cocaine, each is used differently and produces a slightly different high: powder and crack cocaine.
Powdered cocaine is usually snorted through the nose or dissolved and injected. Crack cocaine comes in small, rock-like pieces and is typically smoked. Both forms work quickly and can be very addictive, even after just a few uses.[3]
Cocaine is a Schedule II drug in the United States. This means it has a high risk for abuse and addiction, but it also has limited medical use in specific cases, like certain types of eye surgeries. However, most cocaine use happens illegally and comes with serious health and legal risks.
Cocaine produces a fast, intense high that fades quickly, prompting users to take more just to feel the same effect. This constant chase builds tolerance and often leads to addiction before a person realizes it. [4]
The drug impacts both mind and body, causing anxiety, paranoia, and mood swings, while also placing serious stress on the heart and brain. Long-term use can result in memory problems, emotional numbness, poor decision-making, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
While anyone can develop a cocaine addiction, the risk is higher for those with mental health conditions, a family history of addiction, trauma, or early drug exposure. Mixing cocaine with other substances can make the problem even more severe.
Right after using cocaine, people often feel an intense rush of euphoria. They may also experience increased energy, talkativeness, and a fast heart rate.
However, these effects don’t last long—paranoia, restlessness, or irritability can quickly follow.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that even a single use of cocaine can trigger dangerous spikes in heart rate and blood pressure, raising the risk of severe complications such as a heart attack or stroke.[5]
The longer someone uses cocaine, the more damage it does. Ongoing use can lead to depression, anxiety, and long-term emotional instability.
Many people experience memory issues and trouble focusing, which are signs of lasting changes to the brain’s reward system.
Physically, chronic cocaine use can cause heart disease, stroke, and problems with movement or coordination. [6] Studies also show a strong link between long-term use and increased risk of seizures and neurological decline.
If cocaine use starts taking over a person’s life, it’s a red flag.
Common behavioral signs include lying about use, skipping responsibilities, or facing legal and financial trouble. People may also isolate themselves from loved ones, lose interest in things they once cared about, or take big risks while under the influence.
Cocaine use affects the body and emotions. Some people lose a lot of weight or experience sleep problems like insomnia. [7] Others feel constantly on edge, irritable, or emotionally flat. These signs can grow worse over time, especially with binge use or mixing with other substances.
A person doesn’t have to hit rock bottom to ask for help. If they’ve tried to quit and can’t, feel strong cravings, or go through withdrawal symptoms like fatigue or depression when not using, it’s time to consider treatment. Cocaine rehab offers tools and support to help someone regain control and build a healthier future.
If you or a loved one is ready to get help but finances are holding you back, give us a call. We can work with your health insurance provider.
The first step in recovery from a substance use disorder is often detoxification or detox.
Detox services aren’t offered on-site, but The Freedom Center works closely with trusted medical partners to ensure a safe and seamless transition into treatment. This coordinated approach helps ease withdrawal symptoms and sets the stage for a more stable start to recovery.
For those who need round-the-clock support, the 16-bed residential program in Buckeystown offers a structured healing environment.
Clients receive evidence-based treatment and trauma-informed care, daily therapy sessions, and the benefit of peer support in a safe and private setting. Most stays last between 21 and 30 days, providing the time and space to begin deep recovery work.
If someone needs more flexibility for their behavioral health treatment, the outpatient center in Gaithersburg offers Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and standard outpatient services (OP). These programs help a person balance their daily responsibilities with ongoing therapy, group counseling sessions, and relapse prevention planning. They’re ideal for step-down care or less severe cases.
At The Freedom Center, the team knows cocaine addiction is often just one piece of the puzzle. Many people who seek treatment are also dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other emotional wounds that haven’t fully healed. [8] That’s why the approach to cocaine addiction treatment in Maryland is about more than just getting clean—it’s about helping someone feel whole again.
The Freedom Center specializes in dual diagnosis care, which means they treat both addiction and the underlying mental health issues that often drive it. [9] Whether it’s unresolved trauma, chronic stress, or a mood disorder, the clinical team creates an individualized plan designed to support healing on every level. This dual-diagnosis focus is what makes this cocaine rehab center approach so effective for long-term healing.[10]
Cocaine rehab programs incorporate evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), group therapy, and trauma-informed counseling to support comprehensive recovery. They also offer supportive tools, including mindfulness, family therapy, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), when appropriate.
Choosing the right treatment for cocaine addiction in Maryland isn’t just about quitting the drug—it’s about building a life that feels stable, fulfilling, and worth protecting.
At The Freedom Center, trained professionals understand that lasting recovery takes more than willpower. That’s why treatment blends compassionate care, flexible cocaine treatment options, and mental health services that meet a person where they are.
With facilities in Buckeystown and Gaithersburg, this Maryland rehab for cocaine offers a peaceful, community-focused setting that encourages deep healing throughout various levels of care.
Those in need of support can access a confidential consultation to explore treatment options. Recovery can begin with a single step toward help.
All content produced by The Freedom Center undergoes a detailed evaluation process to ensure accuracy and quality. We only work with medical professionals and individuals with extensive experience in the field, and all content produced undergoes a review process to ensure accuracy. Our goal is to be a reliable resource the recovery community can turn to for information they can trust.
If you or a loved one is ready to get help but finances are holding you back, give us a call. We can work with your health insurance provider.
Powder cocaine is a hydrochloride salt that’s usually snorted or dissolved and injected.
Crack cocaine is a crystalized form that’s smoked. Crack produces a faster, more intense high, but also wears off quickly, leading to more frequent use. [11]
Both forms are highly addictive, but crack is often associated with a quicker path to dependence due to how rapidly it enters the bloodstream and affects the brain.
[1][4][8] Schwartz, E. K. C., Wolkowicz, N. R., De Aquino, J. P., MacLean, R. R., & Sofuoglu, M. (2022). Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD): current clinical perspectives. Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, Volume 13, 25–46. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9451050/
[2][3] Mind matters: The body’s response to cocaine | National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2025, April 23). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/parents-educators/mind-matter-series/cocaine
[5][6][7][11] Cocaine. (2024, September 27). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/cocaine
[9][10] Co-Occurring disorders and health conditions. (2024b, September 30). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/co-occurring-disorders-health-conditions
Mary is an experienced Client Care Manager with 20+ years in customer service. She excels at problem-solving and takes pride in delivering tailored solutions. Mary builds strong client relationships, ensuring satisfaction with each interaction. Her attention to detail and communication skills are valuable assets. Mary goes above and beyond to exceed expectations and is dedicated to outstanding service. In her free time, she enjoys music, reading, and family time.
Samantha is a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and find healing and recovery. Currently pursuing her advanced degree in psychology, Samantha’s personal journey of overcoming addiction fuels her passion for supporting others on their path to wellness. Samantha’s own journey of recovery serves as a powerful foundation for her therapeutic services. She approaches her work with empathy, understanding, and non-judgment, recognizing that everyone’s path to healing is unique.
Corey Hassett grew up in Gaithersburg Maryland. After graduating high school, he attended college at the University of Coastal Carolina & Salisbury University. In 2014, Corey moved to Florida where he worked in retail sales. In 2015, Corey was given the opportunity to join Amethyst Recovery Center’s Business Development team. In 2018, Corey had the opportunity to partner with Amethyst and USR to open The Freedom Center in his to hometown of Gaithersburg, MD. Throughout his tenure at The Freedom Center, he has strategically built relationship with referring providers, hospitals and local government leaders. Corey has continued to grow The Freedom Center brand, educate his local community on Substance Use Disorder and become a pillar of the local recovery community. Corey’s mission is to provide quality behavioral health care to local community members who reach out in need, regardless of their financial situation. Outside of The Freedom Center, Corey enjoys playing golf, hiking and most of all being the best father to his three young boys.
Michael is the Community Outreach Coordinator and Alumni Director. Himself, an alumni of The Freedom Center, Michael brings a personal experience of the program to his role. A resident of Gaithersburg, Michael has planted roots and established a network in the local recovery community. Michael’s goal is to connect current client and alumni with resources to strengthen their life in recovery.
A veteran of two branches of the U.S. military, Max is continuing his education in healthcare administration. Max began his career in the addiction field working as a group facilitator and teacher, developing and delivering a successful faith-based curriculum in a long-term residential treatment setting. Accruing years of hands-on experience working alongside the administrators of facilities across the country in development of their own unique programs gave Max a unique and robust perspective into the administrative requirements of addiction treatment programs. Today, Max is able to channel his passion for battling the disease of addiction into ensuring The Freedom Center maintains strict adherence to the guidelines set forth by The Joint Commission and our partnerships in the insurance industry, and is constantly striving to improve the overall performance of the facility.
Alexandra oversees all operations with The Freedom Center to ensure clients are given the best chance at success. She works with The Freedom Center team to develop and implement policies, procedures and oversees Intakes and Transportation. Alexandra works with Admissions and Clinical Departments for scheduling client admissions, transfers, discharges and outside appointments while maintaining positive relationships with all clients. Her primary focus is to provide all clients with a safe, structured environment while coordinating their care. Alexandra understands addiction from both familial and personal standpoints, as she is active in her own recovery. Through her own hard-won experience and deep desire to help others, Alexandra became a certified Peer Support Recovery Coach, Life Coach and actively practices principals learned through the recovery process in her daily life. Alexandra is a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend and has learned the value of recovery and succeeding in whatever she sets her mind to. Her innovative approach as Director of Operations gives her clients a safe and compassionate place at The Freedom Center to begin their recovery journey.
James Scribner holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. His career began working in the accounting industry as a financial auditor. In that role, James audited a national trade association with over 1,300 member companies that sell health insurance coverage to more than 200 million Americans. He also conducted official financial examinations of various non-profit organizations and for-profit corporations. This experience allowed him to learn the inner workings of almost any aspect of a company. It also taught him the value of building meaningful relationships with clients and having a strong ethical framework.
James began his personal recovery journey in 2010. Throughout that process, he learned the importance of helping others and living by spiritual principles. Throughout his recovery, James has used his personal story to help make a difference in the lives of others. Over the years he grew into becoming an advocate for people in recovery or seeking recovery from substance use disorders. James is a CCAR Recovery Coach and believes in developing meaningful relationships, and providing highly individualized therapy and client care. In 2017, James had the opportunity to combine his business experience and passion for recovery to start The Freedom Center.
Being born and raised in Gaithersburg, Maryland, it was always a dream for James to start a program where he began his own recovery journey. Having faced addiction in his own life, and having worked through recovery, James truly understands what it takes to get sober and stay sober. James now has the opportunity to do what he loves and help others achieve long-term recovery. James works alongside the clinical director and administrative team to help ensure that every client benefits from a customized treatment plan and holistic approach that offers freedom from the grips of addiction.
“Never lose hope. Recovery is possible!”
Melissa is a visionary and empathetic leader in the field of peer support and recovery. Nationally Certified as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist by the Maryland Addiction and Behavioral-health Professionals Certification board, Melissa’s journey has been defined by her unwavering commitment to helping others find their path to recovery. Armed with credentials as a Registered Peer Supervisor, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, and Alcohol and Drug Trainee she has earned her place as a guiding light for individuals seeking hope and solace. Melissa’s illustrious journey includes a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, while she currently works diligently towards her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Walden University. Melissa’s personal experiences with addiction and mental health struggles instilled within her a profound passion for supporting others on their recovery journey. Her unwavering commitment to peer support, coupled with her own lived experience, fuels her drive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing similar challenges.
As an integral part of The Freedom Center, Melissa’s multifaceted experience shines through her past work in various capacities. She played a pivotal role as a peer support specialist in the overdose response team for Montgomery County, where she collaborated closely with the Department of Health and Human Services, Crisis Center, EMS, MCPD, and Montgomery County hospitals. Her presence on this team highlights her dedication to crisis intervention and her ability to provide critical support during vulnerable times. Prior to her role in crisis intervention, Melissa worked extensively in the substance abuse and dual diagnoses treatment field. Her diverse roles as a case manager, discharge coordinator, behavioral health technician, group facilitator, and clinician have provided her with invaluable insights into the complexities of addiction and mental health recovery. Above all, Melissa’s authenticity shines through her self-disclosure as someone in long-term recovery herself. This profound personal connection fuels her passion for working in the field and enables her to bring a unique blend of empathy and expertise to her role.
Meet Federico Douglas. Federico is bilingual is Spanish. He earned a Bachelor’s degree at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania while pursuing his CAC-AD. With strong ties to Victory Christian Church and the 12-step community, Federico shares an amazing personal story of redemption and long-term recovery. With over 32 years in the arena of addiction and sobriety, he uses his vast experience to provide a unique approach to mentorship and guiding our clients toward a supportive lifestyle of recovery. Mr. Douglas’ experience, strength, and hope inspires those in our program, and prepares them for the real-world journey of recovery. With a robust foundation in 12-step philosophy, Federico can not only educate the clients on the model, but also integrate the tried-and-true principles in a more personal, clinical setting.
Bunmi is a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Human Services. She joined The Freedom Center team to provide counseling for substance use disorders and related mental health issues on an individual basis, facilitate group sessions, provide assessments, and provide support to the clinical staff. Bunmi is dedicated to helping her clients reach their full potential and build their toolkit of resources to support their long-term recovery.
Meet Cheryl Moore. Cheryl is a Clinical Social Worker licensed by the state of Maryland with over 30 years of experience in the field. She graduated from The University of Maryland with a master’s degree in social work. Her experience in a variety of settings, from leadership in a hospital setting to private practice, affords Cheryl a well-rounded skillset ready to render top-notch care and serve the needs of our diverse community. As a licensed clinician, Cheryl stands ready to diagnose and treat a wide spectrum of mental, behavioral, and personality disorders that sometimes present alongside a substance use disorder. Whether she’s leading group therapy or providing an individual therapy session, Cheryl’s expansive knowledge and genuine compassion paired with her deep drive to help people are always on display at The Freedom Center.
Meet Mr. Kevin Sockwell. In addition to the title of Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Kevin is also licensed by the state of Maryland as a Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor. He holds a Master of Science degree in Counseling and has over 26 years of experience as a substance use/mental health counselor with the Montgomery County Government. Whether he’s leading groups or providing individual and family therapy, Kevin’s passion for serving those suffering from substance use disorders is always on display. When he’s not busy treating The Freedom Center’s clientele, you might find Kevin engaged in his other passion as an actor/director in the local theater community. Kevin’s expertise and experience as a Primary Therapist, paired with his natural talents and abilities as a speaker and an artist, have uniquely equipped him to reach our population and render top-notch care.
Vanessa is certified in addictions counseling by Maryland’s Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists, with credentials as a clinical supervisor. She comes to The Freedom Center with over 14 years of direct experience in residential and outpatient treatment between the private and federal sectors.
In addition to helping those suffering from addiction, Vanessa has dedicated part of her career to “helping the helper.” In 2015, she began working in a Training and Career Development Center coordinating substance abuse trainings for other clinicians. Her experience in behavioral health training, program development, and organizational leadership lead her to pursue a certification as a Project Management Professional in 2018. Vanessa also holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Behavioral and Social Sciences from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master’s of Business Administration-Human Resource Management from Columbia Southern University.
Vanessa is a Montgomery County native who spends her free time traveling with her daughter and volunteering in the community.
Judy is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland, and a National Certified Counselor. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland. Judy is a Primary Therapist who provides services to clients with dual-diagnosis disorders and is skilled in providing Trauma-Informed Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Eating Disorders. She has served in both clinical and leadership positions in a number of roles, in inpatient and outpatient settings, as a Primary Therapist and Clinical Supervisor.
Deirdre graduated in 2012 from Pace University and completed her bachelor’s at Columbia University in New York and has her Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner. Deirdre also has a Master’s in Public Health in Epidemiology. Deirdre has extensive experience in mental health and treating substance use disorder related issues. In addition, Deirdre has experience in caring for young adults, women’s health issues and adolescents with HIV/AIDS. She served as a Wellness coordinator at Search for Change, Inc and currently serves as an Independent Practice Coach from 2011 to present. As the Family Nurse Practitioner, Deirdre performs history and physical exams, and works with clients to diagnose and treat dual diagnosis clients.
Mark joined the medical team at The Freedom Center in September 2018 as the Medical Director. He received his medical degree in Mexico with further certification from Rutgers Medical School in New Jersey. He then attended New York Medical College for his residency training. Prior to being hired at The Freedom Center, he spent over twenty years working in the field of addictions treatment, and has been involved in nearly every treatment setting, from outpatient to residential to maintenance management.
As the Medical Director, Mark works with the staff to coordinate the appropriate level of care for each individual client. He works directly with the clients on management of medical issues both related to and separate from their addiction, ensuring comprehensive health care plans that ensure our clients’ chances at recovery. What he has found to be most rewarding about working in the addictions treatment field is being able to help suffering addicts and alcoholics to realize their fullest potential.
