Awareness, Come Follow Me, Come Unto Christ, Mindful Recovery, Psychology, Social Issues, Spirituality

How Substance Use Counseling Ignited my Understanding of Salvation

The greatest deception of one who is living an active and sinful lifestyle is one who is imprisoned by their own denial. In essence, we lack the awareness and fortitude to admit there is something wrong with us. Because of this, we build systematic defenses to protect ourselves from the reality of our condition. For the alcoholic and addict, this defense system protects them from an awareness they have an inherent problem with drugs, alcohol, and/or other addictive behaviors.

Addiction, Awareness, Mindful Recovery, Self-Help, Spirituality

Does a 12-step based recovery program work?

There appears to be some aversion to attending, participating in, and following the 12-steps of sober support meetings. The underlying question: does a 12-step program help people achieve sobriety? In Chapter 2, of the second edition of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, we read the following introductory statement: WE, of Alcoholics Anonymous, know thousands… Continue reading Does a 12-step based recovery program work?

Addiction, Awareness

Nature of Substance Use Disorder and Social Responsibility

Within the past year, we have heard stories from social media, news outlets, and ongoing conversations around the rise of the opioid crisis. Reading through the various commentary, there is a noticeable trend of individuals caught up in emotional responses. Yet, as a society, do we fully comprehend the nature of addiction and how individuals… Continue reading Nature of Substance Use Disorder and Social Responsibility

Awareness, Mindful Recovery, Psychology, Religion, Self-Help, Spirituality

Sometimes, you just need to rest

The past few days (except for today) reminded me of how important rest is to the human mind, body and soul. Since Sunday, I have experienced emotional, mental, and spiritual exhaustion because of an event that had occurred. Normally, I spend either Saturday or Sunday as a day of rest in order to prepare myself… Continue reading Sometimes, you just need to rest

Awareness, Lifestyle, Mindful Recovery

Recovery isn’t for you

Having been a moderately seasoned counselor for the last six years, I've come to realize that recovery isn't for you. Before you start drawing some conclusions, keep reading. Sitting in counsel with many patients, conducting and facilitating various therapy groups, and utilizing all the best practices and evidenced-based material, I've come to realize the strength,… Continue reading Recovery isn’t for you

Addiction, Awareness, Mindful Recovery, Self-Help, Spirituality

Nature and Power of Honesty

When my daughter was younger, she'd love to watch Veggie Tales. I had a copy of one of her favorite VT videos. The title: Larry Boy and Fib from Outer space.  The premise of the story line focused on dishonesty vs. honesty. Each time Jr. Asparagus told a lie, Fib grew larger and larger. At the… Continue reading Nature and Power of Honesty

Addiction, Awareness, Psychology, Religion, Social Issues, Spirituality

Addressing recovery from a Christian and Biblical worldview

Carl Jung (1865 - 1961) worked with a gentleman by the name of Rowland H. This gentleman was a gifted affluent young businessman. He suffered from Alcoholism and sought out any possible cure for his problem. Rowland's attempt to address his drinking problem failed. Traveling to Switzerland, Rowland sought out Carl Jung. In their conversations, Rowland… Continue reading Addressing recovery from a Christian and Biblical worldview