Neil Scott

Recovery Coast to Coast Radio

Neil Scott

  • Merrilee Greene - EDITED.MP3

Merrilee Greene - EDITED.MP3

Wednesday 13th April 2016

Merrilee Greene discusses her role at New Directions for Women, emphasizing gender-specific addiction treatment, community support, and sponsorship.
16 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Encouraging

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Recovery Coast to Coast Radio
Author:
Neil Scott
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Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
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Financial Health in Recovery
Sobriety Toolkit
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Merrilee Greene: Guiding Women Through Addiction Recovery

Not just addiction, but just in any aspect of your life. You know for a fact that there's millions of people who have gotten sober and stayed sober, just not even having the opportunity to go to a treatment center like this, but just by following the steps of the big book and just living your life like that.
What does it take to create a safe haven for women battling addiction? Merrilee Greene, the Care Coordinator Supervisor at New Directions for Women in Coast Mesa, CA, has some answers. In a candid conversation with Neil Scott on 'Recovery Coast to Coast Radio', Merrilee opens up about her journey and the unique aspects of running one of the oldest gender-specific addiction treatment programs in the country. New Directions for Women isn't just any treatment center.
It's a sanctuary where women don't have to choose between their recovery and their children. Merrilee shares that over 250 children have lived on campus, allowing mothers to focus on their healing without being separated from their little ones. And if that’s not impressive enough, more than 100 babies have been born there, a testament to the program's nurturing environment. Merrilee emphasizes that a great treatment center is built on the strength of its staff.
She introduces us to her team, highlighting their dedication and the critical role they play in the recovery process. She also talks about the mature women's group she facilitates, designed for women who have experienced significant life events such as marriage and parenthood. This group faces unique challenges, especially since many members are older than those Merrilee has worked with before. Yet, she has cultivated a space where respect and safety are paramount.
Sponsorship is another cornerstone of the recovery journey at New Directions. Merrilee stresses the importance of finding a sponsor while in treatment to build confidence and support networks that extend beyond the program. The foundation of their approach is rooted in the steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, but they also encourage participation in Al-Anon or CoDA meetings, recognizing that many alcoholics struggle with codependency. Merrilee's passion and dedication shine through as she discusses her work.
Her efforts have provided countless women and children with hope and a path to healing. Tune in to hear more about Merrilee's inspiring journey and the incredible impact of New Directions for Women.