Breaking Free: Joe Ortiz's Recovery Journey
Episode Overview
Joe Ortiz's journey from addiction to recovery The role of family in substance use recovery Importance of the CRAFT method Impact of music, specifically Prince, on recovery Personal transformation through intervention
Recovery is not just for the person struggling with Substance Use Disorder but for the entire family.
In this episode of Peji's Recovery Corner, listeners are introduced to Joe Ortiz, a professionally trained Drug and Alcohol Interventionist. Joe shares his personal journey from addiction to recovery, offering insights into the challenges he faced and the methods that helped him overcome his struggles. Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Joe grew up in a rough neighborhood, where he was known as the 'nerd' before turning to alcohol and drugs as a means of gaining confidence and escaping fear.
Joe's journey took a pivotal turn in January 2013 when his wife filed for divorce, prompting him to confront his addiction. He highlights the importance of family support in recovery, sharing how his wife's involvement in Al-Anon played a crucial role in encouraging him to seek help through Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that recovery is not solely about the individual battling addiction but also involves the entire family.
A key aspect of Joe's recovery approach is the CRAFT method, developed by Dr. Robert Meyers. This method aligns with Joe's belief in a holistic family-centered approach to recovery. Joe's professional experience includes working at RCA and Delphi on the East Coast, where he applied his expertise to help individuals and families navigate the complex journey of substance use disorder.
Aside from his professional life, Joe discusses the profound impact of music, particularly his admiration for Prince, on his recovery journey. He shares a poignant story about his late friend Rachel Reinhold, a fellow Prince fan whose daughter recently reached out to him, offering her mother's memorabilia. This gesture serves as a reminder of the enduring connections and shared experiences within the recovery community.
Joe's story is a testament to the power of personal transformation, resilience, and the support of loved ones in overcoming addiction. Through his work and personal experiences, Joe continues to inspire others on their path to recovery, advocating for a comprehensive approach that involves both the individual and their family.