Orlando Castro: Guiding Kids and Families Through Addiction Recovery
When you come out through the other side, you're going to be more powerful and more impactful than just a basic therapist which do phenomenal jobs also.
Imagine dedicating over two decades of your life to saving children from the clutches of addiction. That's exactly what Orlando Castro has done. As a mental health therapist, family counselor, and Director of the Adolescent Unit at Larkin Hospital, Orlando's work focuses on helping young people and their families overcome the devastating effects of substance abuse. In this episode of 'The Rehab' podcast, Dr.
Mark Leeds sits down with Orlando to discuss his remarkable journey and the personalized approaches he uses to treat addiction. Orlando's passion for his work is palpable. He emphasizes that addiction is a complex issue requiring individualized care. No single treatment fits all, so he listens carefully to each child's needs, treating them with respect and understanding. His approach recognizes that behaviors caused by addiction stem from a medical condition, not a moral failing.
One alarming topic Orlando addresses is the rising opiate use among young people, including children as young as two years old. The power and danger of opiate addiction are stark, with many young people relapsing even after receiving medical treatment. Orlando stresses the need for a range of treatment options, from medical interventions to therapy and support groups like Narcotics Anonymous. The episode also delves into the role of therapy in addiction recovery.
Orlando highlights the benefits of multi-family groups, where families can come together in a supportive environment to heal and rebuild relationships affected by addiction. These groups provide a therapeutic space for both individuals struggling with substance abuse and their loved ones. Support groups and 12-step programs are another key theme. While no single solution works for everyone, these programs offer a supportive community that can be incredibly motivating for those in recovery.
Orlando shares personal stories from his own journey, underscoring that those who overcome addiction can often provide more impactful support than traditional therapists. Throughout the episode, Orlando's dedication shines through. His message is clear: recovery is possible, and compassionate, individualized care is crucial. If you or someone you know is battling addiction, this episode offers hope and practical insights for finding a path to healing.