Dr. Brandon Bergman on Navigating Addiction Treatment and Recovery Support
We really do things in our life for two reasons: one is to get something we want and the other is to avoid something we don't want. So that's sort of the community reinforcement approach, in a nutshell.
When the world turned upside down during the COVID-19 pandemic, addiction recovery faced a new set of hurdles. Dr. Brandon Bergman, an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Associate Director of the Recovery Research Institute, dives into these challenges in this episode of 'The Addiction Psychologist'. Dr. Bergman breaks down the crucial differences between addiction treatment and recovery-support services, shedding light on how each plays a unique role in helping individuals on their journey to sobriety.
With physical distancing pushing many support services online, he discusses the pros and cons of virtual recovery communities and how they stack up against traditional in-person support. Dr. Bergman introduces listeners to various methods that have shown promise in these turbulent times. From the community reinforcement approach, which focuses on building positive life skills, to mutual help organizations like step meetings and secular groups, there's a lot to unpack.
He also highlights the growing popularity of recovery coaches and peer support specialists who assist with practical aspects like employment and healthcare. Whether you're navigating your own recovery journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of addiction support. Dr. Bergman's expertise provides a comprehensive look at how we can continue to support those in recovery, even when face-to-face interactions are limited.