Cravings are common and occur frequently in early recovery. Even with long-term abstinence, we sometimes find ourselves obsessing over a compulsion to use. Jim explores relapse prevention and strategies.
Overcoming the Fear of Step Four
There’s an adage my friends in AA use to describe the fear of transformation, “One, two, three… drink. One, two, three drink.” This is a reference to working steps 1-3 in recovery, only to return (often briefly) to drinking and using.
Beyond Relapse Prevention: Trauma Recovery
Amongst those who do escape the perils of addiction, other demons remain. Rarely have I met a person in recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD) who did not have a great deal of repressed trauma, a wealth of unresolved grief and loss, and underlying mental illness.
Better Than New Year’s Resolutions
If we’re going to achieve better health and a higher quality of life this year, then we need to set some meaningful goals and ensure that we have the accountability we need to ensure our process earns us the results we seek.
What You Say vs. What Your Therapist Hears
My clients can only be as honest with me as they are with themselves. My job is to challenge what they’ve convinced themselves of.
Taking Compliments & Why It Matters
We are people who desperately want praise, recognition, affirmation and validation. Sadly, we are also uncomfortable receiving them and so we often reject (minimize, water down) kind words.
How to NOT Settle for Less
Settling is a great example of how people continue to utilize addictive thinking even in long term recovery. As the adage goes, “Everything you most want is on the other side of fear.”
Creating Healthy Relationships in Recovery
Building healthy relationships is no small undertaking. Let’s explore worthwhile investments in building healthy partnerships!
The Fear of Falling Apart
The fear of falling apart leaves us carrying a lot of baggage. A newfound freedom exists in learning how to let go.
Addiction & Mental Health, which comes first?
Addiction and mental health go hand in hand, but which one should be addressed first?