Stephen's Path: From Addiction to Counselor and LGBTQ+ Advocate
My story is my story and I'm proud of it.
Ever wondered how someone can turn their darkest moments into a beacon of hope for others? Meet Stephen, who got sober in 2017 after a life-changing referral from a counselor. This episode of 'What Next' dives deep into Stephen's journey through the labyrinth of addiction and mental health struggles. From his early encounters with therapy during childhood to his eventual sobriety, Stephen's story is both raw and inspiring.
He didn't just stop at getting clean; he went on to train as a counselor himself, dedicating his career to supporting clients grappling with addiction and those within the LGBTQ+ community. Stephen opens up about the profound impact of counseling on his recovery and how it has shaped his professional life. He discusses the importance of reframing trauma, the power of peer support, and the need for self-compassion. Trigger warning: This episode includes deep discussions on self-harm and suicide.
Join Karl Considine as he and Stephen navigate these challenging topics with empathy and hope, offering valuable insights for anyone on their own path to recovery.