Cheryl Knepper on Tackling Process Addictions and Embracing Art Therapy
Allowing the teen or the young person to individuate from you. That means let them stand on their own two feet. If they make a mistake, they have to learn from that and grow from that.
Ever wondered how process addictions like gambling or video gaming can intertwine with substance use disorders? In this episode of 'My Child & Addiction', Cheryl Knepper from Caron Treatment Centers dives into these intricate connections. She unpacks how process addictions can exacerbate risky behaviors and how innovative treatments like art therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offer pathways to recovery.
Cheryl's insights highlight the importance of a family systems approach, where young people learn resilience by standing on their own feet and growing from their experiences. Art therapy emerges as a powerful tool, enabling individuals to express emotions they might struggle to verbalize. DBT, on the other hand, provides a framework for finding balance in a world often seen in black and white.
With the added challenge of pandemic-induced isolation, Cheryl underscores the role of virtual support groups in maintaining connections and fostering recovery. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies for parents and family members seeking to support their loved ones through the complexities of addiction.