Understanding Addiction: Glen Carner on Family Therapy and Harm Reduction
My job is to work with people who are trying to achieve whatever variety of goals they're trying to achieve and help them get there.
Ever wondered how family therapy can play a crucial role in addiction recovery? In this episode of 'The Social Exchange', licensed mental health counselor Glen Carner sits down with host Zach Rhoads to share his insights. As the first installment of the FSDP Presents series, this episode sheds light on the innovative approaches advocated by Families For Sensible Drug Policy (FSDP), a global coalition focused on compassionate, science-based solutions for substance use issues.
Glen Carner, who runs Family & Addiction Counseling in Hawaii, dives deep into the biopsychosocial model of addiction. He explains why it's essential to look beyond just the substance use and consider the whole person. Patient engagement and feedback are key elements in his individualized psychotherapy approach, making therapy a two-way street. The conversation also touches on the broad definition of relapse and the various patterns of addiction, providing a nuanced perspective that goes beyond traditional views.
One of the standout moments is when Carner discusses the role of the therapist in helping clients achieve their goals. It's not just about guiding them but also about collaborating with them to find the best path forward. The episode wraps up with an exploration of how families can influence sensible drug policy and the impact they can have on addiction treatment.
Whether you're a professional in the field or someone looking for compassionate and knowledgeable perspectives on addiction, this episode offers valuable insights.