Breaking Barriers: Addressing Co-occurring Disorders with Empathy and Expertise
With motivational interviewing it really is like a partnership between the therapist and the client, or the clinician and the client, where it's almost like a give and take right kind of back and forth.
Ever wondered how to tackle addiction when it's tangled with other mental health issues? In this episode of the Landmark Recovery Podcast, host Zachary Crouch chats with two seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of experience and compassion to the table. First up is Karl Shallowhorn, an Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor with nearly two decades of experience. Karl opens up about his personal journey through addiction and shares how motivational interviewing can make a world of difference in recovery.
This technique, which treats the patient as an equal partner in the process, helps individuals feel more in control and engaged in their own healing journey. Next, Zach sits down with Andrew Spiers, a licensed social worker and Director of Training & Technical Assistance at Pathways to Housing. Andrew delves into his work with individuals facing both chronic homelessness and co-occurring disorders.
He stresses the importance of meeting basic needs like shelter and safety before tackling deeper emotional and psychological issues. Andrew also shares insights from his time at RHD’s Morris Home, the only residential rehab program in the U.S. specifically for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. His stories highlight the unique challenges this community faces, including barriers to affirming medical care and the critical need for trauma-informed support. The episode also explores the vital role of certified peer specialists in recovery.
Karl and Andrew discuss how peer support can be a game-changer, offering relatable guidance from those who've been through similar struggles. They emphasize a person-centered approach, tailoring care to each individual's unique experiences and needs. If you're curious about how to effectively treat addiction alongside other mental health challenges, or want to understand the hurdles faced by transgender individuals in recovery, this episode is a must-listen.
It's a heartfelt conversation filled with practical advice and hopeful stories that underscore the power of empathy and specialized care in the journey to sobriety.