Carl Fessenden: From Marine to Substance Abuse Counselor
I just happened to use a program and the steps as a vessel to facilitate the fact that I'm able to now look at myself and love myself and, you know, have character traits that are positive rather than negative and to be in a healthy relationship with a partner, and you know, and all these things right.
Ever wondered how a former Marine transforms into a dedicated substance abuse counselor? Carl Fessenden, host of The Drunken Worm podcast, shares his gripping journey from military service to helping others overcome addiction. In this episode, Carl opens up about his mental health breakdown during infantry training and the tough decision to stay in the military despite his mother’s concerns. Surrounded by peers using drugs and alcohol, Carl found it hard to escape the clutches of addiction.
Yet, with the support of a dedicated group and a sponsor who truly understood his struggles, he managed to turn his life around. Carl didn’t stop there; he embraced the challenge of becoming a substance abuse counselor, working at a county rehab in Napa and diving deep into the drug medi-cal system. His story is not just about personal triumph but also about the importance of continued education in the field of addiction recovery.
Carl highlights the value of informative resources, like YouTube videos from seasoned professionals, and the power of prayer in battling addiction and mental health issues. He candidly discusses the discomfort that often accompanies growth and encourages listeners to face it head-on. If you’re looking for an inspiring tale of resilience and the transformative power of support, this episode is a must-listen.