Hallucinogen Abuse

Not all illicit substances need to be physically addictive to be destructive. This is the case with most hallucinogenic drugs (except PCP), where the addictive aspects are more cultural and mental, rather than physically addictive like alcohol, tobacco, or opioids can be. Hallucinogenic drug abuse has continued to rise in recent years, like other substances. For example, the number of first time LSD users last year was nearly 400,000. Today, nearly 3% of 12th graders had used LSD once in the past year. There are a few key things to know about hallucinogenic drug abuse.

Natural doesn’t mean healthy

Most hallucinogenic drugs that are popular in the United States are naturally occurring. The only popular hallucinogenic substances that are not naturally occurring are LSD (acid) and PCP. Aside from those drugs, psilocybin is by far the most popular hallucinogenic drug, which is better known as magic mushrooms. However, there seems to be a growing misconception that these drugs are not necessarily harmful, due to the fact that they are naturally occurring. However, while not physically addictive, there are loads of dangerous side effects of using a naturally occurring hallucinogen.

Short-term effects of hallucinogens

Hallucinogenic drugs are composed mainly of short-term side effects. Using such substances will cause the user to go into a state of auditory and visual perception distortion, thus causing hallucinations (this isn’t surprising, as it is why people use the drug). Due to the psychological manipulation that these drugs produce, they can also cause other psychological problems, such as paranoia, anxiety, and mood swings. On top of that, it is possible for a hallucinogenic drug to trigger a seizure or coma in its users.

Physically, hallucinogenic drugs can cause an irregular heartbeat, which increases respiratory problems. It can also cause reflex impairment, hot and cold chills, and loss of sensory control. The most common danger to individuals under the influence of hallucinogenic drugs, though, is the impulsive decision making that can cause users to make decisions that lead to accidental death (the hallucinations don’t help, either).

Long-term effects of hallucinogens

If you use hallucinogenic drugs continuously, for an extended period of time, then several long-term effects can develop. In terms of acid or PCP, it is not unusual for a user to develop psychosis, after continual use. Prolonged panic attacks and paranoia are also not uncommon, as are intense periods of dissociation. Memory loss is also a possibility. Another misconception about hallucinogenic drugs is that they only affect you for the period right after you take the drug. However, psilocybin and LSD (among other substances) can be triggered into what is called a “flashback,” which causes a person to be thrown back into a trip, even months or years after taking the substance.

What Our Clients are Saying

For substance abuse and trauma recovery. This place is amazing! Lindsay is absolutely fantastic. She is incredible at what she does (trauma therapist) and has a heart of gold! I don't know where I would be without her. She helped me out of a really dark place and I am forever grateful.

Sheba kelly

21:43 24 Dec 25

Renaissance Recovery is one of those places that that you will never forget. To call it special, or helpful would be the understatement of the decade. The director of RCC is named Steve, but it really should be Life Saver. I do not say this lightly. Not only did Steve help save my actual life, but my family life as well. I have heard countless testimonies of him doing so for hundreds if not thousands of others. Steve is one of those guys that is absurdly passionate and loves what he does. He also treats you with the utmost respect and is brutally honest. As a matter of fact, the entire staff at RCC handles themselves in this manner. At RCC I was able to not only work on myself, but I was able to work towards finding the root cause of my issues and dealing with them head on. I would HIGHLY recommend RCC to anyone that is struggling and needs help. If you are willing to put in the work, RCC is the best place around.

H R

22:43 22 Nov 25

Renaissance and their Steph have changed and saved my life- something I could never repay. The heart and care involved here is unmatched, and I’m so grateful and thankful for being led to Renaissance. I felt loved by the group as well as the staff, and now connected to recovery going on 8 years. Thank you Renaissance!!! Love you all ❤️

Stephanie Thompson

20:34 13 Nov 25

Renaissance recovery center is a great and very helpful and understanding community/family they have helped not only my fiance but me as well though her recovery and they have helped her help me so I wanted to give a big thank you to Steve and the team for everything they do they truly care for your recovery and take care of your loved ones!!!(Highly recommend them to anyone seeking treatment!)

Adrian Hernandez

18:04 13 Aug 25

If you want a place that sincerely is there for you, and is there to help better your life and you're willing to do whatever it takes to keep your sobriety, this is the right place for you. The staff is amazing. Their focus is their clients and how they can help. You also create lifelong relationships with other people that know exactly how you feel and you know how they feel. I truly don't know where I would be if I hadn't gone to Renaissance Recovery Center. They have helped me stay sober and have helped me create a healthy lifestyle and create a social network to keep my sobriety. An environment that's all about helping and never about how much money they can make. I have the utmost respect and appreciation for them. If you need help or a family member or a friend needs help reach out to them because they truly care!!!!!

Kelly Massie

19:44 10 Jul 25

Steve is the best at what he does. If you or a family member is seeking treatment, you will be grateful you called Renaissance Recovery Center.

Ryan Lish

01:27 29 May 25

This is the ideal place for those committed to achieving and maintaining sobriety. The staff is highly professional, bringing a wealth of knowledge not only from formal education but also from real-life experience. We're not bad people trying to get good, we're sick people trying to get well. They administer the treatment for our sickness at Renaissance.

Dillan

00:27 22 Mar 25

Steve was the exact guide we needed. In a situation where you have no idea what to do, he was able to understand sympathetically and offer guidance—and hope! As a family member getting my loved one into treatment was the hardest and Steve always knew when to call me and offer support (and I also felt this helped hold me accountable to my responsibility to my loved one). My loved one completed his program and the change in our life is night and day. A light in the dark! There couldn’t be a holier work. I only have gratitude.

Buffy Noel

23:15 13 Mar 25

There aren’t enough words for what this recovery center has done for me and countless others! Best in the valley!

Amber Mennenga

03:33 26 Feb 25

Renaissance Recovery was a godsend to our family in a time of crisis. Their compassion, dedication, and deep knowledge of addiction and recovery was evident in every aspect of the program that was a salvation to my family member. Their intensive group program and individual counseling elicited honesty and dealt with past trauma, to give my family member the tools and insight and solid footing on their path to recovery.The openess and compassion of the family group meetings and invitation to participate in counseling sessions as desired kept me involved, hopeful, and supported as I healed in my recovery. Their dedication to after care and commitment to be there for clients and family to support any future recovery needs is a great comfort as we move forward in our lives.The Renaissance strong legacy of hope and recovery is evident in their program graduation ceremonies and alumni AA meetings, and open door to family members of past clients.We are filled with gratitude to be in this circle of hope and recovery created by Steve, Lindsey and the Renaissance team.

Joe R

17:40 21 Sep 24

Does this place accept 17 year olds with a marijuana addiction

Brayden Scarpa

23:18 29 Aug 24

Just when I felt hopeless from a life of addiction, I found this place! The staff truly cares and save lives! I’m proud to be part of the Renaissance Family! I couldn’t imagine life without them, I thank them from the bottom of my heart for everything I’ve learned from them! Life is Beautiful! I strongly recommend this place to anyone that’s ready to make the move!

Zachary Frago

20:07 05 Jun 24

As the spouse of someone who has been in long-term recovery for 11 years, thanks to Renaissance Recovery Center, I can't recommend this program enough. While my partner was battling addiction, I felt lost and unsure how to best support them.That's when I discovered Renaissance Recovery Center's friends and family program. For 18 months, I learned invaluable tools and gained a deeper understanding of co-dependency and how to navigate the complexities of addiction recovery. It wasn't just about supporting my partner; it was also a journey of self-discovery. Steve, the program leader, is an absolute gift. His expertise and genuine compassion create a safe space for growth. He masterfully guides families through the recovery process, not just focusing on the addict but on the entire support system.This program transformed my life. I learned how to set healthy boundaries, prioritize my own well-being, and ultimately, become a happier person. Today, I am eternally grateful for the positive impact Renaissance Recovery Center has had on both our lives.If you're seeking a spiritual and holistic approach to addiction recovery for yourself or a loved one, look no further than Renaissance Recovery Center. It's a life-changing experience.

Daisy Loves Hunter

23:30 29 May 24

The work being done at RRC is life changing. I was NOT a fan at first. Went there kicking and screaming. After a little bit Steve and his staff's teachings really started to reach my heart and those dark places in my mind. While I cannot say I was a star student, now, several years removed, I am still recounting some of the teachings and tools I learned there at RRC. I am sober and my relationships, job and life are better than ever. Steve you were and remain a blessing to me and my family.

Rick Lane

20:06 16 May 24

This place helped save my family member. That family member has tried close to a dozen other places for over a decade with minimal success. The staff here helped create a community they could connect with and a structure to do the actual work of recovery. It allowed them to dive into the recovery process in safe but effective way, not judging, and leaving NO room for excuses.Update on my family member, a little over one year after entering the program they are now over one year sober, thriving in their career, in a stable relationship, and have grown in multiple ways. The road to recovery is life long, but they are on a solid path forward. My family will forever be in the debt to the good people at Renaissance Recovery Center.

Sterling King

22:38 10 May 24

Steve Brown is a very experienced and professional clinician in this specialized area of treatment! I would highly recommend him and the Renaissance Recovery program.

Angie Smith

03:18 23 Apr 24

The program at Renaissance is amazing. Steve Brown and his staff care for and support not only the recovering addict but the family as well. The family group that is offered to family members throughout the program makes such a difference. We don't have the family and life we have today without the help of Renaissance. I can't recommend this program enough.

Cortney Pacatte

20:44 04 Apr 24

I can’t say enough about this place. This place and the amazing people that make it up helped save my life. It was the absolute best thing I could have done for myself. My life and my family are so much happier and healthier because of Steve and his crew. Kindest man ever. ❤️ Thank you to all of you at Renascence Reccovery

Jennifer “J lo. Ve” Lorts

05:45 30 Mar 24

If you are at all feeling lost or defeated in your struggle with your addictions, Renaissance Recovery is for you. The staff and environment are unmatched when it comes to true healing and recovery. Please do not hesitate to reach out, you will find yourself in one of the most loving and helpful environments possible with people who have been where you have been. There is hope! Don’t give up!

Sammie Lish

05:07 30 Mar 24

Renaissance is everything and more when it came to my recovery. Steve, Dan, Nils, Chad & Lindsay are the real deal. They care about you, they care about your well being, they care about you untangling and un-rooting what causes us to use.I was a highly functioning alcoholic for the better part of 20+ years and through their guidance I was able to dig deep, self reflect through their teachings to understand that I didn’t have to hold onto my personal shame, turmoil, anger, anxiety and every negative adjective that describes what we go through as addicts and was able to work through and release that pain so I didn’t keep running back to the bottle. They saved my life and I mean that literally. I had the pleasure of making some great friendships and create a brotherhood with some of the men I was in recovery in as well and we are active in our community still and it all stemmed from Renaissance.Thank you Steve for everything. Phenomenal leader who leads with love (but not weak) and truly cares about you and helping you lift every burden that we’ve carried for all those years. I’m forever grateful.

Lance

03:39 30 Mar 24

Renaissance Recovery saved my life. I was at a point in life where alcohol to my body was as essential as air, and I couldn't stop. I was powerless over alcohol. My body was failing and my relationships with family, friends, and coworkers was crumbling. Out of desperation for help, I found Renaissance Recovery with an online search and decided to just make a call. I felt like it was my last call for help at that point. I was immediately greeted with love and compassion with an urgency to help me. Throughout my recovery at Renaissance Recovery I learned how to change my life. At 43 years old, my life now is completely different to how I lived before. I've learned how to be open and honest, how to build and maintain meaningful relationships, to find gratitude and joy in every moment of life, and how to fill my life with happiness. A lifelong weight was released from my shoulders when I finally got to the point in the recovery process of accepting that I was powerless over alcohol and understanding and doing what was needed to live a happy life while maintain sobriety. The program at Renaissance Recovery works! You just need to be willing to do the work they outline for you and be willing to participate. It's a miracle what they've put together here. It not only saved my life, but the lives of my children, not having to grow up with an alcoholic father. I am 641 days sober today and this is the happiest I've ever been in 43 years. My health is good now and my home is full of love and stability. I literally owe my life to Renaissance Recovery, that is how impactful they have been to my life. If you are struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, this program is THE solution to help you get your life back. The people at Renaissance Recovery are my family now, I have developed life-long friendships from there, that is how connected you become through the program. Thank you Renaissance Recovery!!!

Jake W

21:43 29 Mar 24

Renaissance Recovery Center helped me so I could heal and get back to the real me. I can honestly say they saved my life. Steve is very caring and compassionate and loving and he and his team are there to help you get back to being a whole person again. All of the staff was and is wonderful. Alumni are really encouraged to take advantage of RRC’s active ongoing healing community. I hope I can make it to the next graduation!

Jason Ferguson

21:13 29 Mar 24

This place has aided me in achieving one of my greatest accomplishments in life. They have helped me to live my best life, and offer me the hope of a promising and sincere future. I did not know that such positivity and hope existed in this world, and my only regret is that I did not contact them sooner. I am forever grateful to the staff and alumni from this place. I could not recommend a place more than Renaissance for those seeking sobriety and hope.

seth ellis

21:44 12 Mar 24

Steve Brown at Renaissance Recovery Center in Gilbert is amazing!!! Compassionate and caring! Goes over and beyond for people!!!

Tajma Palma

17:51 16 Dec 23

I love this place and the people who run it. They really care about you and not your wallet like other places. Connection for life when you attend is a real thing.

Eric Nitzsche

00:55 13 Dec 23

I Highly Recommend This Program for anyone needing assistance with potential addiction issues in and around Gilbert, AZ! I have known Steve Brown for over 25 Years and he is the absolute best at quickly responding in Assessing and Treating anyone with Alcohol &/or Drug Use Problems in your area!

Bill Ford

21:25 11 Dec 23

Going to Reinassance Recovery was the best decision I made for my recovery. From the first call I made to Steve to my aftercare graduation, Reinassance Recovery has been a foundation to my life today. I met a group of women in the IOP program who have become my best friends today. The accountability and support I found in there, was really what changed and saved my life. The therapists are great and we're always available when I needed anything, whether it be a letter for court or just someone to talk to. Reinassance Recovery will always be home away from home for me. Forever grateful for this program and their staff.

Emily Powell

21:19 09 Dec 23

The first time I encountered Renaissance Recovery, I was not willing to let go of the way I chose to live my life, even though I was dying a slow death. I did not think that I was worth anything more and I had no hope. The second time I encountered Renaissance Recovery, I stayed and completed the program! And because of the program and ALL the staff...I KNOW today that I am worthy of my beautiful life, Renaissance Recovery, has given to myself and my daughters! And I have HOPE on a daily basis!

Paige

23:00 08 Dec 23

Renaissance Recovery is the real deal! They get down to causes and conditions and use a compassionate approach to effect change. I’ve known Steve Brown for over 17 years, and his loving influence showed me I was worthy of change and a life of long term recovery.

Richie-Convalesce Wilson

21:10 05 Dec 23

The men running this program are the real deal. Very competent in treating substance use disorders. Very experienced staff. Steve helped my brother find himself and heal. For that I am grateful. Keep on keeping on guys.

Preston Dixon

20:15 03 Dec 23

I will attempt to describe in words what Renaissance has meant for me in my life. People that truly care about you as a person and about your recovery. The ability to connect and uncover the real pain that may have led you astray in life. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, I would recommend a place that can start you on the path to true freedom and inner peace, that place is Renaissance! The level of care provided is life changing. If you’re in a tough place, looking for a way to dig yourself out, look for a place with the people who not only have the expertise in the field but who you can call family

Phil

20:30 11 Sep 23

Graduate of this IOP and 20 months sober. The thoroughness of the program delved into the core of me and helped me find myself again. I strongly recommend Renaissance Recovery. Steve holds you accountable and keeps you in his heart like family. He has helped me and my family multiple times. He is just a phone call away. If you need help, this is where you need to be.

Ana Buzan

18:36 28 Jul 23

Just over six months ago, I realize that my life was a complete mess. Being chemical dependent and carrying so much shame and guilt. It caused so many issues in my life. I tried doing it on my own so many different times I couldn’t even count. It greatly affected my family life, my marriage, my work life and was damaging myself and loved ones around me. I searched a couple other IOP‘s and actually attended one out in Mesa, I’ll keep them disclosed, but I can’t share my experience there. It seemed as if I was just another number there.My mother had done some research though on Renaissance and told me to reach out to them so I set up an appointment and came in and met with Stephanie. From immediately walking in the front door through intake process I felt that I had found the right place already. She was so kind and comfortable to talk to and was confident that I could get the help that I needed there. She was so right. I started group the next week and boy was I in for. A wonderful experience! Steve and Dan ran groups in such a different way than I’ve ever experienced, and truly showed their passion and care For their clients here! I was able to also get therapy through Lindsey there who was amazing and helping me deal with all my buried shame and guilt so that I could be free of the chains that kept me tied to my chemical dependency. They also offered on weekends. Back to basics a 12 step program which I took and was able to get through the steps in five weeks to find freedom. Dan and Steve are trust worthy people that I am so grateful to have found and I can’t leave out Mills who help me stay accountable with drug screenings. I can truly say that these people are my forever family. I know their recovery and how to walk people through difficult times in their life to find freedom from their hurts habits and hang ups in life. Much love, Graham.

Graham Gilbert

17:05 30 Jun 23

This place saved my life. I completed a 3 month outpatient program at Renaissance after a 6 year meth addiction. This was my first rehab experience. Steve, Dan and the other amazing staff created an environment that allowed me to be honest and expose my truth (for the first time in my life) allowing us to get to the root of my trauma and then carefully have been helping me rebuild a new life of sobriety. The program doesn’t end after your outpatient program is complete, they continue to provide support through meetings and events. My gratitude runs deep and I love these people.

Brad Smith

22:38 06 Jun 23

The group at RRC is outstanding. You will learn to access a solution to fix things in your life that feel upside down. Steve and the rest of the crew are dynamic in helping you steer the ship in the right direction. Sail on my bros!

John Durkin

02:38 26 May 23

Renaissance is a game changer!! It was the greatest move I have ever made. At 53 years old and lifetime of abuse I was sure nothing would change me; I thought my situation was unique. I started IOP with an open mind and as I grew more and more my life started to get clearer. I have over 10 months now and going strong. Renaissance saved my life and gave me hope. Thank you!~James R

James Ronzoni

22:23 27 Jan 23

These folks seriously do the lords work. I've been to a few treatment places, and none made me actually convinced that the staff cared about me the way Rennisance did. They helped me stay safe, they are there any time you need to call, the facility is open and designed to just use as a hang out spot outside of sessions. Pool table and everything! I learned most of my strongest recovery tools here. I've got 11 months and some change of sobriety now, and I owe so much of that to Rennisance.

laurel oxenborg

06:34 25 Jan 23

Steve brown is a WEALTH of knowledge… having personally dealt with both addiction to substances AND mental illness. We have looked into many resources and feel that Steve has a greater understanding than any other resources we have found. He is incredibly generous with his time and truly is in this work to heal and help those struggling with addiction. Is a heaven sent that we found him and the resources offered at renascence ranch AZ.

Stephanie Eastman

23:02 17 Nov 22

Renaissance Recovery is an empathetic, loving, supportive, realistic and holistic breath of fresh air in the valley's recovery community. Each employee that works there has your success and support as their number one goal. For those looking for hope, answers and solutions there is no finer establishment. I have witnessed absolute miracles happen in the rooms at Renaissance. Don't over think it.......give them a call! 🙏

Craig Owens

21:03 14 Oct 22

As a treatment provider, I’ve been aware of Renaissance Recovery Center for many years. I know Steve both personally and have worked with him professionally. I would highly recommend this program to anyone needing help with substance use challenges. Renaissance is caring, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest level of treatment. The team is experienced and uniquely skilled. They will always put the needs of each person first. If I need to make a referral in the Phoenix area, Renaissance is at the top of my list. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call Steve. Renaissance Recovery Center does it the right way.

Mike Brown

00:54 13 Oct 22

Steve is an absolutely remarkable guy! I felt I got more benefit after a 30 minute assessment than I have from other providers in a very long time. His foundation is clearly built upon the genuine care and concern for those he serves, and his understanding and support for those in recovery is beyond reproach. Thank you!

Stephen Connolly

19:22 17 May 22

Having known Steve Brown for many years, and seeing his dedication to the service of those struggling with addiction and life disruptions, I know he and his team are dedicated to helping anyone searching to move from difficult times towards a more inspired and purposeful future. This is a place to re-design your future!

Bruce Jackson

18:36 15 May 22

There are 2 kinds of life savers. Those lil circular mints and renaissance recovery center. One freshens your breath, the other freshens every aspect of your life!! Everything about this place is top notch. From the facilities where groups are held, down to couches in the lobby and everything in between. There are no words for how incredible the staff is. From the first intake call on the phone down to your last graduation ceremony where not only the whole staff from RRC comes to support you, but the lifelong friends you make throughout your journey. I’ve done my fair share of treatment programs. This one tops them all. With that being said, I WILL NEVER BE BACK…as a client!! But you can bet your circular mint chewin’ beehind that I’ll be back every week for the alumni meeting!! Let’s get. Renaissance on 3!1…2…3!RENAISSANCE!!!!!

Sean Hornbeck

01:31 11 May 22

I have been in touch with Steve for a few months now. All I can say is that if you or a loved one are struggling with addiction there are people who will understand you, and when I called this place for the first time I finally felt understood. Addiction is complex and if you have concerns, one phone call can change your life. Start having a conversation. Don’t suffer in silence. Educate yourself about addiction and all it’s complexities. It starts with you and this place will help you.

Erin Ware

17:30 07 Feb 22

Absolutely hands down the epitome model of what real caring for individuals with addiction looks like. This is not a run of the mill experience with just a clinical look but with a deep understanding of addiction and what recovery looks like. Caring, compassionate, highly effective program that comes with support that is above and beyond after graduation.

Paola Palacios

20:57 17 Dec 21

It is seldom that in a hard time you think you will gain from the experience, but because of this phenomenal center that is exactly what I got. Learned so much about myself as well as learned I’m not alone in my struggles. I made lifelong friends that walk beside me through it all and I with them. The staff is beyond compare! They’re there for you through thick and thin. They honestly and truly care with love understanding and respect. Zero guilt pushed just genuine looking out. So happy I chose this path with these amazing people.

Joshua Kelben

16:40 16 Dec 21

Highly recommend!! 5 stars!!! Great staff who took the time to get to know me. They have a lot of experience in this field and have first hand experience with what I was going through. IOP is outstanding and really built up a ton of great relationships and found this program to be a ‘breath of fresh air’. They got a lot of love and empathy and will always go the extra mile to help their clients!When I first called Renassaince Recovery to ask some questions, someone locally answered and spent time with me just talking. No big admissions call center! I knew this was place for me after that first call!I encourage anyone reading this, if you think you have a problem and need help Renaissance Recovery is a safe place and will change your life! Their program works… if you make the decision and take suggestions.

Dustin

17:02 24 Jul 21

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OUR MISSION: To promote healing and wellness for the suffering addict, their families, and others struggling with psychological and emotional challenges; to provide care within an environment of safety, respect and regard for each individual.