- Alcohol
- Faith
- Friends & Family
- Mental Health
Submitted by: Bo Brown
How long have you worked in the recovery industry?
I have worked in the recovery industry for over 25 years now.
What is your role in the recovery industry?
I have a private practice as a psychotherapist specializing in addictions.
What led you to your work in recovery?
I am in recovery myself and, by the grace of God, have 30 years of sobriety. When I first got into recovery I had a very special social worker who helped me tremendously, and I owe my life to her. I then went to school to become a therapist. It took me many years, but I worked as a med tech in an emergency room and I saw how addicts were treated and discarded by the medical profession. That was another reason why I went into the recovery field. I have always worked in dual diagnosis. I believe that behavioral health issues make many people vulnerable to addictions. Because they go together so often, people need to receive a holistic approach to treatment to address all of their issues. I myself was a dual diagnosis patient. I suffered from addiction and bulimia. After my stint in rehab, I dove into the twelve steps and AA and that saved my life. The fellowship gave me the support to stay clean. My work with my clients touches my heart. I meet them where they are at and if I just plant a seed or assist in putting their lives back together, I feel like I have made a difference in the world.
If you could give one piece of advice for someone who is starting their journey into recovery, what would it be?
One of the slogans in AA is “This too will pass.” Whether you are in the corner sweating and shaking or thinking of picking up, pick up the phone and ask for help because life does get better.