Anne-Marie's Journey: From Addiction to Healing Others
I think I ended up exactly where I needed to be, and I think it's pretty telling about being a person in recovery that where I wanted to be, or where I thought I would end up, was different.
Ever wondered how personal experience shapes a therapist's approach to addiction treatment? In this compelling episode of 'All Things Substance', Betsy Byler sits down with Anne-Marie, a therapist and substance abuse counselor who has walked the path from addiction to recovery. Anne-Marie shares her transformative journey, from her initial foray into macro social work to becoming a beacon of hope for those struggling with addiction.
Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of integrating personal experiences into professional practice. Anne-Marie discusses the unique challenges she faces as a therapist with a history of addiction, highlighting the need for proficiency in both mental health and substance use disorders. She candidly talks about the pitfalls of practicing outside one's scope and the detrimental effects it can have on clients.
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the role of shame in addiction treatment and why negative consequences often fall short in fostering recovery. Anne-Marie also sheds light on the benefits of medication-assisted therapy and the critical importance of meeting clients where they are in their recovery journey. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in addiction recovery, mental health, or the delicate balance of integrating personal history with professional expertise.
Tune in to hear Anne-Marie's inspiring story and gain valuable perspectives on effective addiction treatment.