Mental health and addiction recovery are complex journeys. Now, a Houston-based practice called The Antidote is pioneering a fresh, holistic approach that starts from within the body.
Founded by licensed professional counselor Meg Wilson, The Antidote focuses on healing gut health to improve brain function and overall wellness — a method she says is helping hundreds of clients reclaim their lives.
The missing piece: Gut-brain health
Wilson noticed a pattern among her patients struggling with addiction: despite therapy, many weren’t fully healing.
“Addicts often don’t eat properly, so their insides are not in good shape,” she explains.
This insight led her to develop a program that integrates amino acid therapy and nutritional support alongside traditional counseling.
By addressing deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, hormones, and inflammation through comprehensive blood work, The Antidote treats the whole person.
Wilson said patients report significant reductions in anxiety and depression, clearer thinking, less brain fog, and increased energy.
A comprehensive 10-week program
The Antidote offers a 10-week intensive program priced at $9,500. This includes weekly 90-minute sessions with Wilson, therapists, and nutritionists, all tailored to each individual’s needs.
The program also provides 24/7 access to clinicians, ensuring continuous support beyond office visits.
Wilson emphasizes the personalized nature of the care, “In 10 weeks, we can see a really big difference.”
Beyond addiction: Helping families and communities
The Antidote’s services extend beyond addiction recovery. They offer specialized workshops for couples and individuals on topics like managing anxiety, fighting fair in relationships, and overcoming self-sabotage. These workshops are designed based on community needs and keep groups small to foster open conversation.
For children with ADHD, The Antidote provides non-stimulant amino acid supplements designed for focus without the common side effects of traditional medications.
Wilson shares, “It’s not a stimulant; it’s supplementation.”
Wilson believes that mental health care is on the cusp of a major transformation.
“In the next five years, mental health is going to change a lot. It’s going to become much more integrative and holistic. If we can resolve that from the gut/health perspective, then we all win,” she said.