Deanne Adamson On Addiction Recovery Through Psychedelic Therapy

Deanne Adamson On Addiction Recovery Through Psychedelic Therapy

What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? This conversation between host Tim Westbrook and guest Deanne Adamson answers that with raw honesty, a bit of humour, and a fresh take on recovery. You’ll hear Deanne share her "sudden conversion" moment from alcohol in 2010, when a gut-level sense of despair turned into a clear inner message: "There is something you can do.

You can quit yourself." That decision led her to lifelong sobriety and to founding Being True To You, a transformational addiction recovery coaching programme that works closely with psychedelic therapy and other intensive experiences. The chat tackles a big theme: doing "the work".

Tim pushes Deanne to spell out what that actually means, and she breaks it down as holistic, long-haul personal and spiritual cultivation—new habits, new relationships, new routines and, most of all, taking responsibility instead of staying stuck in victim mode. Psychedelic therapy, including powerful plant medicines like ibogaine, is discussed carefully rather than glamorised.

Deanne explains how these treatments can create a brief window where change feels possible, but stresses that "you can’t buy your way out of addiction" and that most of the transformation happens afterwards through integration coaching. You’ll also get a clear explanation of the difference between a coach and a counsellor, why intention matters more than luxury rehab, and what makes someone coachable (spoiler: you have to actually want change).

Tim adds his own experience of feeling "blessed" to be an alcoholic because hitting bottom forced him into deep inner work. If you’re curious about psychedelic-assisted recovery, or just wondering whether a coach could help you go beyond simply staying sober, this episode offers a grounded, human look at both. Could your current struggles be the very launch pad for your next chapter?