Episode 99 - The Effects of Trauma
Episode 99 - The Effects of Trauma

Recovery Is Possible

In this episode I am being interviewed by Dr. Robb Kelly regarding the effects of trauma in Law Enforcement. The fact is, we all experience trauma, and it has an incredible impact on our well-being on so many levels. This is certainly true for First ...

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39:08•6 Apr 2022

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About this podcast

Recovery Is Possible

Michael Van Meter

Michael has seen first-hand the devastating effects of addiction on the public, his profession, and himself. Michael began his career as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy. After eight years, he became a Corrections Officer, Washington DC Police Officer, and then FBI Agent. In 2010, Michael became an instructor at the FBI Academy. In 2013, he created a course titled “Leading At-Risk Employees” geared toward Police Executives to help them understand alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence as it relates to policies and procedures for their agencies worldwide. In 2019, Michael retired from the FBI but his passion for helping others continued. In August 2022, he graduated with a Master’s in Addiction Counseling: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. He currently works full-time as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a large nonprofit hospital. Pulling from his personal and professional experience, Michael shares his thoughts on this sensitive, complex, and controversial subject.

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Trauma and Addiction: Insights from a Former FBI Agent and Expert Therapist

“I have never met anyone that in recovery, or anyone struggling with getting into recovery that did not experience some form of trauma. Dr. Kelly describes how trauma and addiction are related, and most importantly, what we can do about it.”

Trauma affects everyone, but it hits first responders especially hard. In this episode of 'Recovery Is Possible', retired FBI instructor Michael Van Meter sits down with Dr. Robb Kelly to discuss the profound impact of trauma on addiction and PTSD. Michael, drawing from his extensive background in law enforcement and addiction counseling, shares how trauma influences the brain and why community support is vital for recovery.

They dive into brain-based therapies like EMDR and brain spotting, offering practical advice for those dealing with trauma. Michael also highlights the crucial role of management in addressing substance abuse within police work, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding. Whether you're a first responder or someone supporting a loved one through recovery, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable tips to help navigate the challenges of trauma and addiction.

PreviousEpisode 98 - Lies People Tell with Frank Runles

NextEpisode 100 - Our 100th Episode! Reflections on Recovery