To start let’s talk about treatment and what treatment offers. Treatment offers stabilization for the addict and alcoholic in the acute phase of addiction. Most addicts and alcoholics can stay clean and sober during a detox or inpatient treatment, there are some exceptions. Addiction is that “thing” takes over and even in the best conditions …
Continue reading “What is Structured Family Recovery®?”
Michael Herbert
My names is James C, I’m an alcoholic who happens to be of African American descent. My experience coming into alcoholics anonymous is similar to most other African Americans in that there was the fear of not being accepted and being judged on the color of my skin not the content of my character. Just …
Continue reading “African American Alcoholics (Part 1)”
Michael Herbert
One common symptom of shame is developing codependent relationships with others. When working with others in their recovery one of the first things we learn is to be comfortable in your own skin – to love yourself unconditionally. If you love yourself unconditionally then you accept all the good and bad you have to offer, …
Continue reading “Part 2: The Path To Freedom Is Eliminating Shame”
Michael Herbert
With almost thirty years of recovery and twenty five years working in the addiction recovery field, I continue to evaluate barriers to recovery. What gets in the way of truly experiencing all recovery has to offer? My answer continues to be simple. Shame. It has taken me over half of my life not to view …
Continue reading “Part 1: “The Beginning” Shame and Addiction”
Michael Herbert
Over the past year our family has overcome many heart wrenching obstacles. It all started in June 2015. My aunt had a massive stroke. After 6 months of hospitals and long term care facilities she lost the battle to stay alive. I lost my favorite person in the world. I lost my best friend. The …
Continue reading “Still Clean and Still Standing Tall”
Michael Herbert
I am writing this because in my treatment experience, over a decade ago, some of Michaels words affected my so deeply, I use them regularly working with sponsees and sometimes sharing at meetings. I will briefly share them with you. The 1st was when I had about 3 weeks clean, I was walking down the …
Continue reading “My Michael Moment”
Michael Herbert
Everyone in addiction is different and goes through their own personal process of recovery. That is the beauty of us as individuals. Everyone has their own personal battles to overcome. Some may need medication to keep from using drugs. Being on a mood stabilizer can have its benefits in the short-term; however, in the long …
Continue reading “Recovery…Recovered That Is The Question (Part 2)”
Michael Herbert
