RECOVERable: Mental Health and Addiction Experts Answer Your Questions
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- 12. Nov. 2026
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RECOVERable features conversations with top experts in mental health, addiction recovery, and emotional wellbeing. Each episode answers the internet’s most-asked questions about topics like anxiety, trauma, relapse, and self-growth, breaking them down into clear, relatable insights you can actually use. No jargon. No judgment. Just expert-backed guidance to help you understand and take control of your mental health.
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Chronic Pain Explained: Why Rest and Willpower Don't Fix It
Why does chronic pain persist long after an injury heals? Host Terry McGuire sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Shilagh Mirgain to break down the science of chronic pain and mental health, medical …
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Why does chronic pain persist long after an injury heals? Host Terry McGuire sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Shilagh Mirgain to break down the science of chronic pain and mental health, medical dismissal, and evidence-based strategies to calm an overactive nervous system.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Dr. Shilagh Mirgain is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and pain management expert at the University of Wisconsin who helped develop the VA's Whole Health initiative for chronic pain. In this episode of RECOVERable, Dr. Mirgain explains why chronic pain operates like a broken alarm signal in the central nervous system. When pain lasts past three to six months, central sensitization can cause neural pathways to fire on overdrive even when diagnostic scans show no ongoing tissue damage. She validates the emotional toll of medical dismissal, debunks the toxic myth that persistent pain is 'all in your head,' and clarifies why developing physical tolerance to opioid medications is clinically distinct from addiction.
Moving past the traditional medical model that only treats isolated body parts, Dr. Mirgain outlines the biopsychosocial approach and the six essential pillars of self-management. She explains why complete bed rest weakens muscle tone and deepens depression, how childhood trauma and chronic stress lower pain thresholds through the brain's limbic system, and how the 'spoon theory' helps individuals budget daily energy to prevent crash-and-burn flares. You will also discover practical ways to activate the parasympathetic relaxation response, replace catastrophizing thoughts with balanced self-talk, and approach doctors as an empowered self-advocate.
Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video with someone who needs validation and evidence-based relief.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: Chronic Pain Myths vs. Facts
09:20 – Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain: The Broken Alarm
11:20 – Why Fluctuating Pain Increases Anxiety
15:40 – The Emotional Toll of Medical Invalidation
17:00 – The 6 Pillars of Pain Self-Management
20:20 – The Biopsychosocial Model Explained
22:00 – Central Sensitization: Pain Without Tissue Damage
26:00 – How Depression and Burnout Intensify Pain
29:20 – The VA Whole Health Approach to Healing
36:00 – PTSD, Childhood Trauma, and Pain Pathways
41:00 – Spoon Theory and Energy Budgeting
44:40 – 5 Science-Backed Tools for Pain Flares
47:00 – How to Advocate for Yourself at Medical Appointments
Questions the Video Answers:
What is the difference between acute pain and chronic pain?
Can chronic pain exist without an active physical injury?
Why does chronic pain cause severe anxiety and depression?
What is central sensitization and how does it affect pain?
Is physical tolerance to pain medication the same as addiction?
Does having childhood trauma increase your risk of chronic pain?
Why do normal medical scans fail to show chronic pain?
What is the biopsychosocial approach to chronic pain management?
How does emotional stress physically amplify pain perception?
Can psychological therapy actually reduce physical pain symptoms?
What is the Spoon Theory and how does it prevent pain flares?
Why is complete bed rest harmful for chronic musculoskeletal pain?
What is the Whole Health approach used by the VA for pain?
How can you effectively advocate for yourself at a doctor's appointment?
#ChronicPain #MentalHealth #PainManagementMental Health and Race: Trauma, Stigma, and Finding a Therapist Who Gets You
Can daily microaggressions physically alter your nervous system? Discover the hidden somatic toll of racial trauma, cultural stress, and systemic discrimination. Host Terry McGuire is joined by trauma …
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Can daily microaggressions physically alter your nervous system? Discover the hidden somatic toll of racial trauma, cultural stress, and systemic discrimination. Host Terry McGuire is joined by trauma therapist, clinical social worker, and author Simone Saunders (MSW, RSW) to explore how cultural identity directly impacts emotional and physical well-being.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Simone Saunders, MSW, RSW, is a registered trauma therapist, the founder of The Cognitive Corner, and the author of Where Do You Feel That in Your Body?. Known globally for translating complex mental health and somatic concepts into accessible everyday tools, Simone joins RECOVERable to dismantle pervasive myths around Black mental health, intergenerational trauma, and the silent cost of the "Strong Black Woman" schema. She also breaks down why "colorblind" therapy is a major clinical red flag that invalidates lived experiences.
In this candid conversation, Terry and Simone unpack how cumulative racial microaggressions keep the nervous system in chronic hypervigilance—leading to anxiety, depression, and somatic tension. They discuss the cultural pressures placed on Black men around emotional vulnerability and hypermasculinity, how spiritual faith and psychotherapy can powerfully coexist, and how you can break generational cycles when family members refuse to acknowledge past pain. You will also discover practical guidance on therapist green flags, the key distinction between cultural competence and cultural humility, and the healing power of community support.
If this episode resonates with you, please give it a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone navigating their own healing journey. How do you balance family expectations, faith, and personal wellness? Join the conversation in the comments below!
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: What Is Culturally Responsive Care?
02:20 – Myth vs. Fact: Racism, Trauma, and Mental Health
06:06 – Why "Colorblind" Therapy Causes Clinical Harm
09:16 – Somatic Signs of Microaggressions and Stress
13:21 – Why Mental Health Is Taboo in Black Communities
18:08 – Finding Culturally Responsive Support & Community
20:46 – Black Men, Hypermasculinity, and Vulnerability
25:40 – Deconstructing the "Strong Black Woman" Schema
29:02 – Integrating Spiritual Faith with Psychotherapy
35:28 – Healing Intergenerational Trauma Without Family Support
Questions the Video Answers:
What is racial trauma and how does it affect mental health?
How do daily microaggressions affect the body and nervous system?
Why is mental health often considered taboo in Black and brown communities?
What are the physical and somatic symptoms of chronic racial stress?
Why is a "colorblind" approach in therapy harmful to clients?
What is the Strong Black Woman schema and how does it lead to burnout?
What cultural expectations prevent Black men from seeking mental health therapy?
Can you go to therapy and still maintain a strong religious or spiritual faith?
How can spiritual practices and psychological therapy work together?
Do you need a therapist of the same racial background to heal from racial trauma?
How do you heal intergenerational trauma if your parents refuse to go to therapy?
What is the difference between cultural competence and cultural humility in mental healthcare?
What green flags should you look for when choosing a culturally responsive therapist?
What are practical ways to practice rest when you are used to carrying everyone else?
#BlackMentalHealth #RacialTrauma #MentalHealthSomatic Therapy: What It Is and How It Releases Trauma From the Body
Can your body hold on to trauma long after your mind has made sense of it? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with trauma therapist and author Simone Saunders to separate somatic …
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Can your body hold on to trauma long after your mind has made sense of it? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with trauma therapist and author Simone Saunders to separate somatic therapy facts from social media hype.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Somatic therapy is body-based therapy that bridges the connection between the mind and body. It is far more than deep breathing or relaxation. Simone explains why you can understand your trauma intellectually and still feel stuck: your nervous system may not have caught up. She breaks down what it means that the body holds trauma, from muscle bracing and jaw tension to gastrointestinal issues, and how complex trauma like childhood emotional neglect builds up over time. Using the window of tolerance, she describes how hyperarousal (fight or flight, panic, anger, impulsivity, substance use) and hypoarousal (freeze, numbness, dissociation) can show up in adulthood. She also shares how the sweating she once thought was hyperhidrosis eased as her nervous system became more regulated.
You will learn what actually happens in a somatic therapy session, why consent and pacing matter, and why touch is optional. Simone explains why people who over-intellectualize often seek this work, how procedural learning drives automatic reactions, and why the real goal is choice. She compares top-down approaches like CBT, DBT and ACT with bottom-up approaches like somatic therapy and EMDR, talks about how long somatic therapy takes, whether online therapy works, and why viral techniques like ice-water face dunks are not quick fixes. She also suggests free starting points, such as noticing your hunger, thirst and sleep cues, and recommends resources from Janina Fisher, Pat Ogden and The Embody Lab.
Whether you have tried talk therapy and still feel stuck, or you are curious about healing trauma through the body, this conversation offers a clear and practical guide, plus a reminder that you are not a project to be fixed.
Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video with someone who is ready to reconnect with their body.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: Somatic Therapy Myths vs. Facts
06:00 – What Is Somatic Therapy?
07:20 – What Can Somatic Therapy Treat?
12:00 – What Does It Mean That the Body Holds Trauma?
16:00 – The Window of Tolerance: Hyperarousal vs. Hypoarousal
19:40 – Can Emotional Stress Cause Physical Symptoms?
21:40 – What Happens in a Somatic Therapy Session?
30:20 – Over-Intellectualizing: Why Insight Isn't Enough
34:20 – Procedural Learning and the Power of Choice
39:20 – Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Therapy
42:20 – The Risks of Viral Somatic Trends
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is somatic therapy and how does it work?
- Is somatic therapy just deep breathing and relaxation?
- Is somatic therapy backed by science?
- Do you have to relive your trauma for somatic therapy to work?
- Does somatic therapy involve physical touch?
- What is the difference between somatic therapy and talk therapy?
- What does it mean that the body holds trauma?
- Why can't I move on even though I understand my trauma?
- What is the window of tolerance?
- Can trauma cause physical symptoms like sweating, tension or stomach problems?
- What happens in a somatic therapy session?
- What is the difference between top-down and bottom-up therapy?
- How long does somatic therapy take to work?
- Are viral somatic techniques on social media safe?
#SomaticTherapy #TraumaRecovery #MentalHealth
ERP: How Exposure and Response Prevention Treats OCD
Can you beat OCD by choosing not to act on your fear? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with OCD specialist Jenna Overbaugh to break down exposure and response prevention (ERP), the …
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Can you beat OCD by choosing not to act on your fear? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with OCD specialist Jenna Overbaugh to break down exposure and response prevention (ERP), the gold-standard therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
OCD is a two-part problem, obsessions and compulsions, and ERP is the two-part solution. Jenna, who brings both professional and lived experience of OCD, explains why the response prevention piece matters as much as the exposure, how safety behaviours and avoidance quietly keep the anxiety cycle going, and why traditional talk therapy can turn into verbal rumination and reassurance seeking that make OCD worse. You'll learn the difference between a thought and thinking, how to resist invisible mental compulsions by catching the question and not answering it, what an extinction burst is, and why the inhibitory learning model focuses on learning something new instead of waiting for anxiety to drop.
Jenna walks through how a therapist builds an exposure hierarchy using a 0-10 SUDS scale, why exposures should be collaborative and start at challenging but manageable, and how to postpone or reduce a compulsion when anxiety spikes. She covers how ERP compares with CBT, DBT and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), what research says about ERP alongside SSRI medication, whether there is a cure for OCD, the most common mistakes people make with self-directed ERP at home, and the red and green flags to look for in an ERP therapist. She also shares her own experience with false memory OCD as a new parent and describes lesser-known subtypes such as real event OCD and relationship OCD.
Whether you live with intrusive thoughts, love someone who does, or are wondering if ERP is right for you, this conversation shows how to make your life bigger so OCD gets smaller.
Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video to help someone with OCD know they are not alone.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: Why ERP Is the Gold Standard for OCD
02:40 – ERP Myth or Fact Lightning Round
09:00 – What Is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?
18:40 – What Does Sitting With Anxiety Feel Like?
23:20 – How Do You Stop Mental Compulsions?
26:00 – Habituation vs. Inhibitory Learning
33:00 – Is ERP the Same as CBT or Exposure Therapy?
42:00 – What Is an Exposure Hierarchy?
45:40 – Can You Do ERP at Home by Yourself?
51:40 – How to Find a Qualified ERP Therapist
54:00 – Lesser-Known OCD Subtypes
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy?
- Why is ERP considered the gold standard treatment for OCD?
- Does ERP make you face your worst fear on the first day?
- Can talk therapy make OCD worse?
- What is the difference between ERP and exposure therapy?
- Is ERP the same as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
- How do you stop mental compulsions like rumination?
- What is an extinction burst in OCD treatment?
- What is the inhibitory learning model in ERP?
- What is an exposure hierarchy and how does a SUDS scale work?
- Is ERP more effective when combined with SSRI medication?
- Is there a cure for OCD?
- Can you do ERP therapy at home by yourself?
- What should you look for in an OCD therapist who does ERP?
#ERPTherapy #OCDRecovery #MentalHealth
OCD: Why Intrusive Thoughts Happen and How to Break the Cycle
Do your intrusive thoughts mean you have OCD, or does everyone have them? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with OCD therapist Jenna Overbaugh to explain what obsessive-compulsive …
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Do your intrusive thoughts mean you have OCD, or does everyone have them? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with OCD therapist Jenna Overbaugh to explain what obsessive-compulsive disorder really is, beyond neatness and hand-washing.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Host Terry McGuire sits down with Jenna Overbaugh, a therapist who spent nearly ten years treating the most severe OCD and anxiety cases at Rogers Memorial Hospital's residential program. She also has her own lived experience of OCD, which began after her son was born. Jenna explains that OCD is a two-part problem. Obsessions are unwanted intrusive thoughts, images, impulses or feelings that are ego-dystonic, meaning they go against your values. Compulsions are the physical or mental rituals you use to ease the anxiety those thoughts cause. She covers common types of OCD, including harm OCD, contamination OCD, hit-and-run OCD, 'just right' OCD, scrupulosity and sexual intrusive thoughts. She also explains Pure O and hidden mental compulsions such as rumination and self-reassurance. Finally, she covers how OCD differs from anxiety, why it's called 'the doubt disorder', and how genetics and stress combine to cause it.
Jenna describes exposure and response prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD. She explains why you should treat OCD like an allergy, not a diet, and how the simple phrase 'I'm having the thought that...' helps you step back from a frightening thought. She also points to the International OCD Foundation as a place to start. For families, she explains how reassurance and family accommodation feed the OCD cycle, and how to set caring, collaborative boundaries instead.
Whether you are wondering if your own thoughts point to OCD or you are supporting someone you love, this conversation offers clarity, practical tools and real hope: OCD is one of the most treatable mental health conditions.
Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery. Leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video to help someone who thinks they're the only one with these thoughts.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: OCD Is More Than Neatness
09:20 – OCD Myth or Fact Lightning Round
16:20 – What Is OCD? Obsessions vs. Compulsions
19:00 – Types of OCD: Harm, Contamination, Just Right & More
21:40 – What Is Pure O? Mental Compulsions Explained
29:20 – Isn't Everyone a Little OCD?
33:00 – OCD vs. Anxiety: What's the Difference?
34:40 – What Causes OCD and How Is It Diagnosed?
39:00 – ERP Therapy: How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts
46:40 – The OCD Cycle Explained
58:20 – Family Accommodation: What to Say Instead
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is OCD and what are its symptoms?
- Is OCD just about neatness, hand-washing, and germs?
- What does ego-dystonic mean in OCD?
- Does having an intrusive thought mean you secretly want to act on it?
- Isn't everyone a little OCD?
- What is Pure O OCD?
- What are the most common types of OCD?
- What is the difference between OCD and anxiety?
- What causes OCD and is it hereditary?
- How is OCD diagnosed?
- What is exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy?
- How do you manage intrusive thoughts without making them worse?
- Does reassuring someone with OCD help or make it worse?
- How can family members support a loved one with OCD without accommodating it?
#OCD #IntrusiveThoughts #MentalHealth
Perfectionism: Is It a Mental Illness? A Therapist Explains
Is your drive to be flawless really high standards, or anxiety in disguise? On RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire and licensed therapist Marc Azoulay answer your top questions about perfectionism, burnout, and the …
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Is your drive to be flawless really high standards, or anxiety in disguise? On RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire and licensed therapist Marc Azoulay answer your top questions about perfectionism, burnout, and the all-or-nothing trap.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Host Terry McGuire sits down with licensed psychotherapist Marc Azoulay, who runs Men's Therapy Online and studied Buddhist psychology at Naropa. Marc explains perfectionism as a coping strategy driven by anxiety and fear that ties your worth to your performance, and how it differs from healthy high standards. In a myth-or-fact round and beyond, they cover procrastination as the other side of the perfectionism coin and how chronic stress affects the body. They also look at how parenting, Western culture, and social media feed perfectionism, how it relates to anxiety and OCD, and why it can lead to depression that feels like emptiness rather than sadness.
Instead of telling you to just chill out, Marc explains how to overcome perfectionism by fixing the "hole in the bucket," which means facing the core insecurity underneath. He compares CBT, which helps you cope and quiet the inner critic, with deeper psychodynamic therapy. He also explains why you need a support system and why you don't have to wait for rock bottom to start therapy.
Whether you are a high achiever who felt nothing after a big promotion or a procrastinator waiting for the perfect moment, this conversation offers a way to keep your ambition without burning out.
Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video with someone who is exhausted from trying to be perfect.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
01:40 – Perfectionism Myths vs. Facts
11:40 – What Is Perfectionism?
14:20 – What Causes Perfectionism? Parenting, Culture & Social Media
18:40 – Is Perfectionism a Mental Illness? Anxiety & OCD
24:40 – Does Perfectionism Cause Depression?
30:00 – How Perfectionism Shows Up as Procrastination
33:20 – How to Overcome Perfectionism: Fixing the Hole in the Bucket
43:20 – CBT vs. Psychodynamic Therapy for Perfectionism
50:20 – High Standards or Perfectionism? The Takeaway
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is perfectionism?
- What is the difference between perfectionism and having high standards?
- Is perfectionism a mental illness?
- What causes perfectionism?
- Can parenting cause perfectionism in children?
- How does social media fuel perfectionism?
- What is the difference between perfectionism, anxiety, and OCD?
- Does perfectionism cause depression?
- How does perfectionism show up as procrastination?
- Can perfectionism affect your physical health?
- Are you born a perfectionist or can you unlearn it?
- How do I overcome perfectionism?
- Is CBT effective for treating perfectionism?
- Will I lose my edge if I stop being a perfectionist?
#Perfectionism #HighFunctioningAnxiety #MentalHealth
Men's Mental Health: Why Men Struggle to Say I'm Not Okay with Marc Azoulay
Why do men struggle to say "I'm not okay"? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with psychotherapist Mark Azoulay, LAC, LPC, CGP, founder of Men's Therapy Online, to unpack the …
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Why do men struggle to say "I'm not okay"? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with psychotherapist Mark Azoulay, LAC, LPC, CGP, founder of Men's Therapy Online, to unpack the unique challenges facing men's mental health today.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
From covert anger and workaholism to silent isolation and low testosterone, male depression often looks drastically different than traditional warning signs. Mark breaks down how traditional talk therapy can fail men, why action-oriented and experiential group therapy builds real emotional resilience, and how side-by-side connections help break down isolation. Whether you are a man looking to build sustainable mental strength, a parent raising adolescent boys, or a partner wanting to offer grounded support without enabling, this conversation provides direct, practical strategies to navigate male burnout, stress, and emotional literacy.
Subscribe to the channel for more actionable mental health conversations!
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
01:00 – Why focus on men's mental health separately?
02:00 – Myth or Fact: Men's mental health lightning round
11:55 – Why is it so hard for men to say "I'm not okay"?
22:25 – How do loneliness and social isolation impact men?
35:45 – How can loved ones encourage a man to seek therapy?
41:15 – When does self-reliance start hurting someone?
42:30 – What can parents do to raise emotionally resilient boys?
54:45 – Is it normal work stress or high-functioning anxiety?
56:30 – How can partners support a struggling man without pushing him away?
Questions the Video Answers:
- Why is it so hard for men to admit they are struggling with mental health?
- What are the silent or covert signs of depression in men?
- Can low testosterone cause clinical depression symptoms in men?
- Why does traditional talk therapy sometimes fail male clients?
- How does overworking or intense gym routines act as emotional avoidance?
- Can men experience postpartum depression or grief after having a child?
- What is the difference between male loneliness and social isolation?
- How does peer group therapy help men build emotional resilience?
- Why are young men going online more vulnerable to radicalization and cynicism?
- How can a partner encourage a man to go to therapy without getting defensive?
- When does male self-reliance stop being a strength and become toxic?
- How can fathers model healthy emotional range and control for their sons?
- What parenting strategies help teenage boys build confidence and identity?
- How do you tell the difference between normal work stress and high-functioning anxiety?
- What message gives a young man in his 20s hope when he feels like giving up?
#MensMentalHealth #MaleDepression #TherapyForMen
How to Quit Drinking With the 12 Step Program Explained
What do the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous actually require? We break down the entire step-by-step process of addiction recovery and how it works. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you …
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What do the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous actually require? We break down the entire step-by-step process of addiction recovery and how it works.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Welcome back to part two of our deep dive into the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Host Terry McGuire is joined by recovery advocate Cliff McDonald, who has actively worked the AA program for nearly a decade. Together, they demystify each of the 12 steps, explaining how this decades-old blueprint operates in real life to help those in addiction recovery.
Cliff walks us through the sequential journey, from admitting powerlessness in step one, to understanding the concept of a "higher power" in step two if you do not believe in a traditional God. He explains how to create a fearless moral inventory, confront resentments, and navigate the challenging process of making direct amends to those you have harmed. We also explore the critical difference between basic sobriety and true recovery, highlighting the daily maintenance steps required to live a happy, joyous, and free life. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or trying to understand the AA 12 steps for a loved one, this comprehensive guide lays out exactly what to expect.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: Demystifying the 12 Steps
01:45 – Step 1: Admitting Powerlessness
07:49 – Step 2: Restoring Sanity & Higher Power
10:50 – Step 3: Turning Your Will Over
17:18 – Steps 4 & 5: The Moral Inventory
23:59 – Steps 6 & 7: Removing Character Defects
29:45 – Steps 8 & 9: Making Direct Amends
35:24 – Step 10: Daily Accountability
38:33 – Steps 11 & 12: Spiritual Awakening
46:48 – Sobriety vs. Recovery Explained
Questions the Video Answers:
What does step one of Alcoholics Anonymous require?
Do you have to believe in God to complete step two?
What does turning your will over mean in step three?
How do you make a fearless moral inventory for step four?
Who should you share your exact wrongs with in step five?
How do you prepare to have your character defects removed in step six?
What does step seven of the AA program entail?
Who goes on your step eight amends list?
When should you avoid making a step nine direct amend to someone?
How do you practice step ten on a daily basis?
How do prayer and meditation work in step eleven?
What does having a spiritual awakening mean in step twelve?
#12Steps #AlcoholicsAnonymous #AddictionRecoveryAlcoholics Anonymous: What Actually Happens At A Meeting
Are you wondering what actually happens at your first AA meeting or if Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with recovery advocate Cliff McDonald …
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Are you wondering what actually happens at your first AA meeting or if Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with recovery advocate Cliff McDonald to uncover the truth about AA.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
With over a decade of researching and working the program, and seven years sober, Cliff brings invaluable firsthand experience to the table. Whether you are sober curious, exploring addiction recovery, or just want to understand how AA works, this conversation breaks down the 12 steps, what to expect when you walk into the rooms, and how the fellowship supports lasting sobriety.
Terry and Cliff don't shy away from the hard questions. They dive deep into the most searched criticisms: Is AA a cult? Is the program too religious? Does admitting powerlessness create learned helplessness? Cliff also debunks common myths surrounding Alcoholics Anonymous, explaining that it is a free, peer-led program that focuses on spirituality rather than strict religious dogma. He explores the concept of the "dry drunk," the difference between closed and open meetings, and why community is the ultimate antidote to the isolation of alcoholism.
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol use, this guide offers calm, practical reassurance and a clear look at what the 12 steps actually ask you to do. Hit play to demystify the AA experience, and be sure to subscribe to RECOVERable for more insights into mental health and addiction recovery!
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & Lightning Round Myths
08:43 – What is Alcoholics Anonymous actually?
18:11 – How to know when your drinking is a problem
22:04 – What actually happens at your first AA meeting?
29:22 – What do the 12 Steps actually ask you to do?
37:28 – AA criticisms: Abstinence and rigidity
39:48 – Is Alcoholics Anonymous too religious?
40:51 – Why do people think AA is a cult?
43:01 – Powerlessness and learned helplessness
47:01 – Dry drunks and legitimate alternatives to AA
DID: How Is Dissociative Identity Disorder Diagnosed & Treated?
How is Dissociative Identity Disorder actually diagnosed and treated? Psychiatrist Dr. Colin Ross, M.D., reveals the truth about living with and healing from DID.Find mental health and addiction treatment near …
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How is Dissociative Identity Disorder actually diagnosed and treated? Psychiatrist Dr. Colin Ross, M.D., reveals the truth about living with and healing from DID.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In Part 2 of this deep dive, host Terry McGuire sits down with world-renowned psychiatrist, trauma expert, and author Dr. Colin Ross, M.D., founder of The Ross Institute. Together, they clear up pervasive myths surrounding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), exploring how clinicians properly screen for dissociation, missing time, and internal voices. Dr. Ross breaks down the critical differences between DID vs schizophrenia, explaining why internal voices in trauma survivors differ from psychotic hallucinations.
The conversation explores the three stages of trauma-informed treatment, clarifying why full fusion or merging of alters isn't always the ultimate goal. Instead, effective therapy focuses on building internal cooperation, safety, and functional collaboration among alternate identity states. Dr. Ross shares practical guidelines for loved ones supporting someone with DID, warning against common relationship mistakes and caregiver burnout. He also highlights how to find specialized care through organizations like the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), as well as modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR.
Whether you are navigating recovery yourself, supporting a partner, or seeking to understand complex trauma, this episode provides grounded, compassionate guidance on moving from internal civil war toward long-term healing and success.
Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video to help destigmatize complex trauma!
Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:01:14 – What Is Dissociative Identity Disorder? 00:02:12 – DID Diagnosis & Treatment Myths 00:07:04 – How Psychiatrists Screen for DID 00:10:58 – Understanding Internal Voices and Alters 00:15:19 – How to Find a DID Specialist 00:18:49 – DID vs. Schizophrenia: Key Differences 00:23:19 – Is Fusion Always the Goal of DID Therapy? 00:27:49 – How to Support a Loved One with DID 00:31:14 – Living a Successful Life with DID
Questions the Video Answers:
- How long does it typically take to get diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder?
- How do psychiatrists screen for missing time and trauma-related dissociation?
- Can online quizzes accurately diagnose Dissociative Identity Disorder?
- Is there prescription medication specifically designed to treat DID?
- What is the clinical difference between DID and schizophrenia?
- Are internal voices in DID the same as psychotic hallucinations?
- What are the three primary stages of trauma-informed therapy for DID?
- Does DID therapy require all alters to fuse into a single personality?
- How can you find a qualified therapist who specializes in Dissociative Identity Disorder?
- What role do Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR play in treating complex trauma?
- How can family members support a partner or friend with DID without burning out?
- What common mistakes should people avoid when supporting someone with DID?
- Can a person with Dissociative Identity Disorder live a high-functioning, successful life?
#DissociativeIdentityDisorder #DID #TraumaRecovery
DID Trauma Response: Why Dissociative Identity Disorder Is a Survival Skill
Is dissociative identity disorder wildly misunderstood? Discover how childhood trauma splits the mind into distinct alters as leading psychiatrist Dr. Colin Ross joins host Terry McGuire to separate medical …
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Is dissociative identity disorder wildly misunderstood? Discover how childhood trauma splits the mind into distinct alters as leading psychiatrist Dr. Colin Ross joins host Terry McGuire to separate medical facts from pop culture myths on RECOVERable.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In Part 1 of this deep dive, world-renowned psychiatrist, author, and DID specialist Dr. Colin Ross—who served on the DSM-IV task force committee—unpacks the reality of Dissociative Identity Disorder (formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder). From explaining how severe, inescapable childhood abuse triggers the brain's natural survival mechanisms to distinguishing genuine DID symptoms from viral social media trends, Dr. Ross delivers essential insights for trauma survivors, families, and clinicians.
Together, host Terry McGuire and Dr. Ross explore how alter personalities function, what switching feels like internally, and why dissociation is a brilliant coping mechanism rather than a defect. You will discover how DID differs from schizophrenia and complex PTSD (C-PTSD), why alters can have unique ages or mannerisms, and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) overlaps with dissociative identity disorder therapy.
Whether you are questioning a diagnosis or seeking to support someone with DID, this conversation offers clarity, empathy, and hope.
Subscribe to RECOVERable, turn on notifications so you don't miss Part 2 on treatment and integration, and share your thoughts in the comments below!
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
02:08 – Myth or Fact: Quick Answers on DID
07:38 – What Is Dissociative Identity Disorder?
12:18 – Childhood Trauma as a Survival Skill
15:38 – Multiple Personality Misconceptions
21:21 – Real DID vs. Social Media Trends
23:50 – What Switching Alters Feels Like
29:22 – DID vs. Internal Family Systems (IFS)
31:54 – Misdiagnosis: DID vs. Schizophrenia
44:44 – The Path to Healing & Therapy
Questions the Video Answers:
What is the difference between DID and Multiple Personality Disorder?
How does childhood trauma cause Dissociative Identity Disorder?
Is Dissociative Identity Disorder the same thing as Schizophrenia?
How common is Dissociative Identity Disorder in the general population?
Can adults suddenly develop DID without childhood trauma?
Are people with Dissociative Identity Disorder violent or dangerous?
Is there a prescription medication that can cure DID?
What does switching between alters feel like?
Can alters have different ages, genders, or mannerisms?
How can you distinguish real DID from someone faking it on social media?
How does DID differ from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy?
What is the difference between complex PTSD and Dissociative Identity Disorder?
Must all alters integrate into one personality for a person with DID to heal?
Why do siblings exposed to the same traumatic environment develop different responses?
#DissociativeIdentityDisorder #DID #TraumaRecoveryOrthorexia: What It Is, the Signs, and How It's Treated
Is your obsession with "clean" eating secretly damaging your health? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire continues the conversation with eating disorder expert Dr. Brad Smith (Medical Director at …
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Is your obsession with "clean" eating secretly damaging your health? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire continues the conversation with eating disorder expert Dr. Brad Smith (Medical Director at The Emily Program) to unpack Orthorexia Nervosa—an eating disorder centered on the obsessive pursuit of "pure" and healthy foods.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
While clean eating is often praised in wellness culture and on social media, Dr. Brad Smith exposes how extreme food restrictions, cutting out entire food groups, and hyper-fixating on food labels can quickly turn dangerous. Unlike Anorexia Nervosa, which is primarily driven by weight and body image, Orthorexia is driven by a mission-based obsession with dietary purity. Left unchecked, this rigid mindset can sabotage social relationships, trigger intense guilt over "slip-ups," and lead to severe malnutrition.
Dr. Smith explains how Orthorexia overlaps with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety, why it is currently diagnosed under OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders) in the DSM-5, and how self-assessments like the Bratman Orthorexia Test are used. He also breaks down what multidisciplinary treatment looks like—including psychotherapy, nutritional rehabilitation with a registered dietitian, and safely managing the re-feeding process.
If you or a loved one are struggling with obsessive clean eating or rigid food rules, watch to learn how to spot the warning signs and access professional support. Subscribe for more expert mental health discussions!
Chapters: 00:00 – What Is Orthorexia Nervosa?
01:09 – Myth vs. Fact: Clean Eating & Food Rules
05:59 – When Does Healthy Eating Become Unhealthy?
07:08 – Why Isn't Orthorexia More Widely Known?
13:03 – Orthorexia vs. Anorexia: Key Differences
17:12 – Is Orthorexia Connected to OCD & Anxiety?
18:39 – Warning Signs & Red Flags of Orthorexia
22:32 – Can You Have Orthorexia Without Weight Loss Goals?
33:05 – How Dangerous Is Restrictive Clean Eating?
34:36 – Multidisciplinary Treatment & Re-Feeding
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is orthorexia nervosa and how is it defined?
- What is the difference between orthorexia and anorexia nervosa?
- Can you have orthorexia without wanting to lose weight?
- Is obsessive clean eating considered an eating disorder?
- Why isn't orthorexia currently listed as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5?
- What are the main warning signs and behavioral red flags of orthorexia?
- Is orthorexia linked to OCD and anxiety disorders?
- How does social media wellness culture contribute to orthorexia?
- Can severe orthorexia restriction lead to life-threatening malnutrition?
- What is the Bratman Orthorexia Test?
- What is re-feeding syndrome in eating disorder recovery?
- What does multidisciplinary treatment for orthorexia involve?
- Does health insurance cover orthorexia treatment under OSFED?
#Orthorexia #EatingDisorderRecovery #MentalHealth
ARFID: What It Is and Why It's Not Just Picky Eating
Is extreme picky eating actually a life-threatening eating disorder? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Brad Smith to break down Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake …
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Is extreme picky eating actually a life-threatening eating disorder? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Brad Smith to break down Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is far more than selective eating—it is a complex, recognized mental health condition that goes well beyond simple food preferences. Unlike anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, ARFID is not driven by body image, weight loss, or body size concerns. Instead, it stems from severe sensory sensitivities to food textures and smells, aversive trauma responses following a traumatic choking or vomiting episode, or a total lack of appetite and interest in eating.
In this comprehensive guide, Dr. Brad Smith, an expert psychiatrist and medical leader at The Emily Program, clears up pervasive myths surrounding restrictive eating disorders. He explores the medical consequences of malnutrition, including severe cardiac arrhythmia, digestive slowdown, and brain fog, as well as the deep emotional and social isolation that living with food anxiety creates. We also examine the strong co-occurrence between ARFID, neurodivergence, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and ADHD.
Learn how medical professionals diagnose ARFID, why multivitamins are not a substitute for complete food nutrition, when higher levels of care or an NG feeding tube become essential tools for medical stabilization, and how exposure therapy with response prevention (ERP) helps patients safely expand their diet. Whether you are a parent wondering if your child's picky eating has crossed the line, or an adult navigating severe food aversion, this episode provides actionable clarity and hope for full recovery. Subscribe to RECOVERable for more insights on mental health, addiction, and recovery support.
Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: ARFID Myths vs. Facts
07:33 – What Is ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)?
08:52 – What Drives ARFID: Sensory, Trauma, & Low Appetite
12:51 – Is ARFID Just Extreme Picky Eating?
16:01 – When Do People Seek Treatment for ARFID?
20:12 – Physical, Emotional, & Social Impacts of ARFID
33:46 – What Is the Link Between ARFID, Autism, & ADHD?
36:31 – How Serious Is ARFID & Can It Be Fatal?
40:48 – When Is an NG Feeding Tube Necessary?
51:26 – What Does Professional ARFID Treatment Look Like?
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)?
- What is the difference between picky eating and ARFID?
- What are the three main types or driving factors of ARFID?
- Can adults develop ARFID or does it only affect children?
- Is ARFID caused by gentle parenting or spoiling a child?
- Do you have to be underweight to be diagnosed with ARFID?
- What physical health risks and heart complications are associated with ARFID?
- What is the connection between ARFID, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and ADHD?
- Does a child having ARFID mean they are automatically autistic?
- Can ARFID be fatal if left untreated?
- How does an NG feeding tube help in severe ARFID recovery?
- Can taking multivitamins cure or treat ARFID?
- How do medical clinicians diagnose ARFID?
- What is the difference between ARFID and Anorexia Nervosa?
- What therapy methods (like ERP) are used to treat ARFID?
#ARFID #EatingDisorders #MentalHealth
Complex PTSD Symptoms: Why You Feel Stuck in Relationships
Are you living in constant survival mode, hypervigilant in relationships, or wondering why safe environments feel uncomfortable? You might be living with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). In Part …
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Are you living in constant survival mode, hypervigilant in relationships, or wondering why safe environments feel uncomfortable? You might be living with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). In Part 2 of this deep dive on RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down again with licensed clinical therapist and trauma expert Amanda Stretcher Lewis, MA, LPC-S, to explore how chronic relational trauma shapes the developing brain and nervous system.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Unlike single-event PTSD, complex PTSD stems from repeated interpersonal trauma, emotional neglect, or attachment wounds during childhood. In this episode, Amanda Stretcher Lewis—a trauma-informed therapist, supervisor, and co-founder of Crescent Counseling Dallas—explains why complex trauma leads to deep-seated feelings of shame, self-blame, and dissociation. Amanda breaks down why CPTSD is frequently misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, BPD, or ADHD, and why it is currently omitted from the DSM-5 despite being recognized internationally in the ICD-11.
Discover how somatic therapies like Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and the Safe and Sound Protocol help process trauma stored in the body beyond traditional talk therapy. Learn actionable tools to expand your window of tolerance, navigate relationship triggers, overcome trauma bonding, and step out of survival mode into genuine post-traumatic growth. Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert mental health guidance, leave your thoughts in the comments, and share this video with anyone healing from childhood trauma!
Chapters: 00:00 – PTSD vs. CPTSD 00:01:29 – Brain Development & Relational Trauma 00:06:13 – Childhood Validation & Internalized Shame 00:08:49 – Developmental Tasks & CPTSD Deficits 00:10:44 – Understanding Dissociation & Coping Mechanisms 00:15:29 – Relational Healing & Trauma Therapy 00:23:12 – Why Survivors Minimize Childhood Trauma 00:31:36 – Trauma Bonding & CPTSD Triggers 00:37:01 – Misdiagnosis & Why CPTSD Isn't in the DSM-5 00:45:10 – Somatic Therapies & Signs of Recovery
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is the difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?
- How does childhood relational trauma affect brain development?
- Why do trauma survivors internalize shame and self-blame?
- What developmental milestones are missed due to childhood CPTSD?
- What is dissociation and how does it manifest in daily life?
- How does dissociation impact performance in high-stress jobs?
- How can you support a romantic partner living with CPTSD?
- What is trauma bonding and how does it affect relationships?
- What are common relational triggers for people with CPTSD?
- Why is CPTSD often misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, or BPD?
- Why is Complex PTSD included in the ICD-11 but missing from the DSM-5?
- Can Complex PTSD be completely cured or healed?
- What are the best somatic therapies for complex trauma recovery?
- How do modalities like Brainspotting and EMDR help process trauma?
- What are the early signs that CPTSD healing is taking root?
#CPTSD #ComplexPTSD #TraumaRecovery
Childhood Trauma Signs of CPTSD: Are You Misdiagnosed With Depression?
Are you constantly living in survival mode without knowing why? You might be experiencing Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD).Find mental health and addiction treatment near you …
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Are you constantly living in survival mode without knowing why? You might be experiencing Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD).
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In part one of this two-part series on RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with licensed clinical therapist and trauma expert Amanda Stretcher Lewis to deeply explore Complex PTSD (CPTSD). Unlike single-event PTSD, CPTSD often stems from chronic, repeated exposure to relational trauma, emotional neglect, or attachment injuries during critical stages of brain development.
In this episode, Amanda breaks down why so many individuals spend years feeling broken, hypervigilant, or trapped in relentless people-pleasing without realizing their nervous system is responding to past wounds. We examine the core differences between PTSD and CPTSD, discuss why CPTSD is so frequently misdiagnosed as treatment-resistant depression or anxiety, and uncover how high-functioning individuals mask severe burnout. Amanda also sheds light on the protective nature of survival strategies, the impact of parentification, and why setting healthy boundaries can feel so intimidating after trauma.
If you have ever felt like safe relationships are uncomfortable or that life is simply harder for you than others, this conversation offers essential clarity, validation, and actionable insight to help you move from self-blame to self-compassion.
Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss Part 2, and share this video with anyone who needs help understanding trauma.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:01:28 – Myth vs. Fact: CPTSD
00:06:41 – What Is Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?
00:08:45 – PTSD vs. CPTSD: Key Differences
00:15:39 – What Causes CPTSD & Relational Trauma?
00:19:43 – Signs and Symptoms of CPTSD
00:24:25 – People Pleasing and Setting Boundaries
00:28:18 – Is CPTSD Misdiagnosed as Depression?
00:32:25 – CPTSD in High-Functioning Individuals
00:46:15 – Adaptive Strategies & Survival Responses
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is the difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?
- What causes Complex PTSD in adults and children?
- Can emotional neglect cause CPTSD without physical abuse?
- What are the most common signs and symptoms of CPTSD?
- Why do safe relationships feel threatening or uncomfortable after trauma?
- Is CPTSD frequently misdiagnosed as clinical depression?
- How does CPTSD show up in high-functioning individuals?
- Can you have CPTSD if you don't remember your childhood trauma?
- What is parentification and how does it cause relational trauma?
- Why does CPTSD cause chronic hypervigilance and survival mode?
- How does childhood trauma lead to adult people-pleasing?
- Why are boundaries so hard to set for trauma survivors?
- What are adaptive survival strategies in trauma recovery?
#CPTSD #ComplexPTSD #TraumaRecovery
Psilocybin & Ibogaine: Can Psychedelics Cure Addiction?
Can psilocybin and ibogaine truly cure depression and addiction, or are the risks being ignored?Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/In Part 2 of this episode of …
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Can psilocybin and ibogaine truly cure depression and addiction, or are the risks being ignored?
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In Part 2 of this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with clinical psychologist and research facilitator Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, to explore the therapeutic potential, safety profiles, and common misconceptions surrounding psilocybin and ibogaine. Dr. Chantelle Thomas, a leading psychologist and researcher who has facilitated clinical trials at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, breaks down the emerging science behind psychedelic-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder, opioid use disorder, and severe trauma.
Together, Terry McGuire and Dr. Thomas separate myth from fact regarding magic mushrooms, neurogenesis, dendritic growth, and the cardiotoxicity risks of ibogaine treatment. Dr. Thomas explains how psilocybin turns down predictive thinking and increases experiential engagement, helping individuals break free from rigid, limiting thought patterns. They also examine the critical distinction between recreational mushroom use at music festivals and structured clinical treatment protocols.
Additionally, Dr. Thomas reveals why psychedelic integration and proper therapeutic preparation are vital, explaining how psychedelics can act as a powerful "gateway drug for therapy" rather than a standalone miracle cure. Whether you are curious about state-level legalization in Oregon, Colorado, and New Mexico, upcoming FDA approval timelines, or how non-ordinary states of consciousness facilitate personal transformation, this episode offers an essential, grounded perspective on the future of behavioral health and recovery. Subscribe for more deep dives into evidence-based mental health treatment!
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Psilocybin & Ibogaine
00:01:35 – Psychedelic Myths vs. Facts
00:06:35 – Neurogenesis & Brain Connectivity
00:10:00 – Psilocybin Clinical Trials & Research
00:18:00 – What Happens in Psilocybin Therapy?
00:23:15 – Why Psychedelic Integration Matters
00:33:15 – Risks, Benefits, & FDA Approval Timelines
00:48:50 – Ibogaine for Opioid Addiction
00:55:00 – Safety & Caution in Ibogaine Treatment
00:59:30 – Final Advice on Psychedelic Healing
Questions the Video Answers:
Is psilocybin therapy effective for major depressive disorder?
How does ibogaine treat opioid addiction and withdrawal?
Can you get permanently trapped in a bad psilocybin trip?
What is the difference between recreational magic mushrooms and psilocybin therapy?
Does psilocybin stimulate neurogenesis and create new neural pathways?
What are the cardiotoxicity and heart risks associated with ibogaine?
How close is psilocybin to receiving FDA approval?
What is psychedelic integration and why is it necessary?
Can a single dose of psilocybin or ibogaine cure addiction?
Where is psilocybin therapy legally available in the United States?
How does psilocybin alter brain network communication?
What happens during an ibogaine life review experience?
How should you prepare for psychedelic-assisted therapy?
Why is traditional psychotherapy crucial before and after psychedelic treatment?
#Psilocybin #PsychedelicTherapy #IbogaineKetamine and MDMA: Can Alternative Treatments Improve Mental Health?
Can ketamine and MDMA truly transform trauma and severe depression? Clinical psychologist Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, joins Terry McGuire to reveal the clinical truth behind psychedelic-assisted therapy. Find …
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Can ketamine and MDMA truly transform trauma and severe depression? Clinical psychologist Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, joins Terry McGuire to reveal the clinical truth behind psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with research facilitator Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, for part one of a deep dive into the clinical landscapes of ketamine therapy and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Together, they dispel common myths surrounding recreational vs. therapeutic drug use, explaining how "set and setting" fundamentally alter patient outcomes.
Dr. Thomas explains how ketamine acts on glutamate pathways and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to offer rapid antidepressant relief in hours rather than weeks. You'll learn the crucial differences between standalone IV ketamine infusion clinics and comprehensive ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), as well as how integration therapy anchors altered states of consciousness into lasting recovery.
The conversation shifts to MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. Dr. Thomas shares insights from FDA clinical trials, highlighting how MDMA expands a patient's capacity to process deep trauma without being overwhelmed. They discuss cardiac risks, candidate screening, abuse potential, and why psychedelic therapy requires skilled facilitation.
Whether you are exploring treatment-resistant depression, trauma recovery, or alternative mental health treatments, subscribe to RECOVERable for expert insights and stay tuned for part two on psilocybin and ibogaine!
Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction & Psychedelic Myths 01:20 – What Is Set and Setting? 05:58 – Ketamine vs Antidepressants for Depression 08:00 – Is Ketamine FDA Approved? 14:49 – What Is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy? 22:03 – Ketamine for Addiction & Trauma 27:00 – What Ketamine Therapy Feels Like 36:08 – MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD 42:34 – MDMA vs Traditional Trauma Therapy 54:11 – Critical Takeaways Before Trying Psychedelic Therapy
Gambling Addiction Recovery: Lost Everything? Here's What Actually Helps
Are you secretly struggling with a sports betting addiction or trying to survive financial ruin after chasing losses online? Learn how to break free. In this episode of the RECOVERable Podcast, host Terry …
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Are you secretly struggling with a sports betting addiction or trying to survive financial ruin after chasing losses online? Learn how to break free. In this episode of the RECOVERable Podcast, host Terry McGuire continues an impactful conversation with expert psychologist Dr. Michael Zhang to explore the psychology of behavioral addiction. Together, they pull back the curtain on the industry's hidden traps, detailing the process of self-exclusion and explaining how modern gambling apps add layers of friction—or fail to enforce bans when you are at your most vulnerable.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Dr. Michael Zhang, a leading psychologist and the innovative founder of the digital platform Incremental, breaks down why gambling disorder is uniquely recognized in the DSM-5 as the only official behavioral addiction. He addresses the intense psychological turmoil that comes with problem gambling, offering actionable advice on how to handle the immediate panic of massive financial loss and the daunting challenge of telling a partner or parents about severe gambling debt. Terry and Dr. Zhang take a hard look at the emerging landscape of sports betting apps and prediction markets, debunking the dangerous myth that betting on sports is purely a game of skill rather than high-risk gambling.
They also expose the conflicts of interest behind industry-funded 'responsible gambling' programs, urging viewers to follow the money and seek independent recovery support instead. By explaining how variable ratio schedules and intermittent reinforcement keep your brain hooked on fake wins, Dr. Zhang delivers a powerful blueprint for shifting from active addiction into lasting freedom. If you are ready to stop active betting, escape the exhausting double life, and discover what true recovery looks like after hitting rock bottom, this conversation is for you. Watch the full episode to learn how to break the spell, rebuild broken relationships, and build a beautiful, authentic life. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with someone who needs to hear it today.
Chapters: 00:00 – [Intro] 00:48 – How Self-Exclusion Works 03:09 – Using Self-Exclusion on Gambling Apps 06:29 – The Significance of Gambling in the DSM-5 08:20 – Handling the Panic of Massive Financial Loss 10:29 – How to Tell Your Family About Gambling Debt 15:14 – Is Sports Betting Gambling or Skill? 22:27 – How Gambling Hotlines Help 24:48 – Addressing Gambling as a Public Health Issue 31:02 – The Overlap with Substance Abuse and True Recovery
Questions the Video Answers:
- How do you stop gambling when you can't control it?
- What is self-exclusion in gambling and does it work?
- Can you ban yourself from online sports betting apps?
- Why is gambling addiction classified as a behavioral disorder in the DSM-5?
- How do I handle the immediate panic after losing all my money gambling?
- What is the best way to tell your partner you lost rent money gambling?
- Is sports betting considered real gambling or a game of skill?
- Why do I keep losing money on sports betting apps?
- How does calling a gambling addiction hotline help you?
- Is problem gambling a recognized public health issue?
- Why is the gambling industry funding responsible gambling programs?
- What is the relationship between alcohol abuse and gambling addiction?
- Can overcoming a gambling problem cure depression and anxiety?
- What does true recovery from a gambling addiction actually look like?
- How do you break the cycle of chasing losses in gambling
#GamblingAddiction #SportsBetting #AddictionRecovery
Gambling Addiction: Am I Addicted or Just on a Losing Streak?
Are you or someone you love secretly struggling with a gambling problem? Discover how modern apps trap your mind and how to break the cycle. In this episode of the Recoverable Podcast, host Terry McGuire sits …
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Are you or someone you love secretly struggling with a gambling problem? Discover how modern apps trap your mind and how to break the cycle. In this episode of the Recoverable Podcast, host Terry McGuire sits down with expert psychologist Dr. Michael Zhang to uncover the hidden psychology of gambling addiction. They explore why it is so difficult to recognize and why individuals get caught in a dangerous loop of chasing losses.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Dr. Michael Zhang, a leading psychologist and founder of the innovative digital recovery support platform Income, breaks down the progression of problem gambling from innocent recreational play to a severe diagnosable disorder. Unlike substance abuse, a sports betting or online slots addiction often forces individuals to live double lives, hiding the financial and emotional damage directly inside their bank accounts. Dr. Zhang explains the neurological mechanism behind the "near-miss" effect and how anticipation triggers dopamine pathways long before an outcome is even revealed.
This deep-dive conversation shatters common myths about willpower, explains official diagnostic criteria, and highlights the terrifyingly high suicide rates associated with this hidden epidemic. If you want to understand how online sports betting apps and prediction markets are engineered to keep you hooked, this video will open your eyes. More importantly, you will learn the crucial difference between temporarily stopping the behavior and completely removing the psychological desire to gamble.
If you are ready to shift from gambling mode to recovery mode and successfully rebuild your life, watch this full episode for actionable, evidence-based insights. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with someone who needs to hear it.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
01:54 – Defining Gambling Addiction vs. Gambling a Lot
04:10 – The Stages of Problem Gambling
08:25 – Why Awareness of the Problem Develops Slowly
12:44 – The Dopamine Psychology of a Gambler's Brain
18:31 – How Modern Technology and Online Apps Changed Gambling
24:50 – The Psychology of Living a Double Life
30:15 – Myth vs. Fact: Debunking Common Gambling Misconceptions
38:57 – Official Diagnostic Criteria for Gambling Disorder
49:27 – How to Actually Stop Gambling and Rebuild Your Life
Questions the Video Answers:
- How do you define a gambling addiction vs gambling a lot?
- What are the psychological stages of problem gambling?
- Why do people with gambling addictions chase losses?
- How does dopamine affect a gambler's brain during anticipation?
- Why is a gambling addiction harder to spot than drug or alcohol abuse?
- How do modern online betting apps use psychological tricks to keep you hooked?
- What is the connection between gambling addiction and high suicide rates?
- What are the official diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder?
- Why do gamblers live double lives and hide financial losses?
- How do you stop gambling when you have lost everything?
- Does paying off someone's gambling debt actually help their recovery?
- How does the brain react to a "near miss" in gambling?
- What is the difference between taking yourself out of gambling and taking gambling out of you?
- What treatment options are effective for long-term gambling recovery?
- How can you shift from gambling mode to recovery mode to rebuild your life?
#GamblingAddiction #ProblemGambling #HowToStopGambling
Ozempic and Cravings: How GLP-1 Drugs Work for Addiction
Can a weight-loss medication actually cure your deepest cravings? Discover how GLP-1 drugs are revolutionizing the landscape of addiction recovery.Find mental health and addiction treatment near you …
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Can a weight-loss medication actually cure your deepest cravings? Discover how GLP-1 drugs are revolutionizing the landscape of addiction recovery.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In this episode of Recoverable, host Terry McGuire sits down with Dr. Steven Klein, an expert medical professional specializing in addiction medicine who also brings his own powerful lived experience of nine years in long-term recovery. Together, they explore the fascinating science of drug repurposing—shifting medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide (widely known under brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound) from type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management over to the frontlines of substance use disorder treatment. Dr. Klein breaks down how these powerful gut-brain peptides quiet persistent "food noise" and "drug noise" by directly targeting the mesolimbic dopamine system, which controls the brain’s fundamental reward circuitry.
Whether discussing alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, nicotine dependence, or behavioral addictions like compulsive gambling, this deep-dive addresses the critical neurobiology behind how GLP-1 for addiction functions as a substance-agnostic tool. You’ll learn about recent groundbreaking clinical data showing a 50% drop in substance-related mortality, the clinical reality of off-label prescribing, common GI side effects, and what happens to internal cravings once you stop taking the medication. Dr. Klein shares his profound "record needle" analogy, showing how these treatments temporarily quiet internal noise so individuals can learn a completely new behavioral song. If you or a loved one are exploring cutting-edge medical tools to support sustainable recovery, reduce relapse, and reclaim your agency, this episode provides essential context, breaking down the artificial boundaries between physical metabolic health and mental health.
Watch the full conversation to unlock the future of highly personalized behavioral care. Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share your thoughts or personal experiences in the comments section below!
Chapters: 00:00:00 – Intro
00:01:14 – How GLP-1s Transformed My Relationship with Food
00:06:27 – How Weight Loss Drugs Ended Up on the Addiction Radar
00:09:05 – How GLP-1s Treat the Core Circuitry of Addiction
00:11:14 – What Are the Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications?
00:15:18 – How Do GLP-1 Drugs Actually Work for Addiction?
00:18:00 – Does Brain Rewiring Continue After Stopping GLP-1s?
00:23:49 – Are GLP-1s FDA-Approved for Addiction Treatment?
00:26:53 – Do GLP-1s Cause Anhedonia or Suicidal Thoughts?
00:42:31 – Can You Take GLP-1s for Addiction Without Losing Weight?
Questions the Video Answers:
- How do GLP-1 drugs work for addiction treatment?
- Can Ozempic or Wegovy help reduce alcohol cravings?
- What is the success rate of GLP-1 medications for substance use disorders?
- How do diabetes and weight-loss drugs quiet food noise in the brain?
- Are GLP-1 medications FDA-approved to treat alcohol or opioid addiction?
- What are the common side effects of using GLP-1s for addiction recovery?
- Do cravings return after you stop taking semaglutide or tirzepatide?
- Can you take GLP-1 medications for addiction if you don't want to lose weight?
- How do GLP-1 agonists impact the brain's dopamine reward system?
- Is it safe to combine GLP-1s with other addiction medications like buprenorphine?
- Will health insurance cover Ozempic or Zepbound if prescribed off-label for addiction?
- Can GLP-1 medications help treat behavioral addictions like gambling or sex addiction?
- What did the British Medical Journal study find regarding GLP-1s and substance mortality?
- Does taking weight-loss drugs cause anhedonia or a general loss of joy?
- How long will it take for the FDA to approve GLP-1s for addiction?
#GLP1ForAddiction #OzempicForAddiction #AddictionRecovery
Naltrexone, Suboxone, Methadone: How Medications Treat Opioid Addiction
Is willpower alone enough to beat opioid addiction, or are we fighting a medical disease with the wrong tools? In this episode of the Recoverable podcast, we shift the paradigm from shame to evidence-based …
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Is willpower alone enough to beat opioid addiction, or are we fighting a medical disease with the wrong tools? In this episode of the Recoverable podcast, we shift the paradigm from shame to evidence-based science.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Host Terry McGuire sits down with Dr. Steven Klein, MD, PhD, a triple-boarded physician in pediatrics, genetics, and addiction medicine who serves as full-time faculty at Caron Treatment Centers. Dr. Klein brings a deeply authentic perspective to the table as a professional in long-term recovery himself, diving into the raw mechanics of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). We break down the crucial differences between traditional Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and OUD-specific options like Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone), oral naltrexone, and the game-changing shift toward monthly long-acting injectables.
Dr. Klein directly confronts the intense societal stigma and the ongoing debate within 12-step recovery groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) over whether using addiction medication means you are truly "sober". He shares the striking clinical data regarding the low number needed to treat (NNT) for buprenorphine compared to other lifelines in modern medicine. Beyond the blocking of withdrawal symptoms and cravings, we uncover the profound psychological "why" behind substance abuse—looking closely at trauma, identity, and the heavy sense of disconnection that fuels severe opioid use disorder. If you or a loved one are trying to navigate rehab options, outpatient detox programs, or sober living rules, this conversation offers data-backed hope. Subscribe for Part 2 next week, and leave a comment below with your thoughts!
Chapters:
00:00 – Changing the Paradigm of Addiction Recovery
01:11 – Dr. Stephen Klein’s Personal Recovery Journey
03:36 – What is the Difference Between MAT and MOUD?
05:12 – The Opioid Class: From Prescription Pills to Kratom
07:05 – Is Abstinence Always the Goal of MOUD Treatment?
09:28 – How Do We Measure Success in Addiction Recovery?
11:34 – How Suboxone and Naltrexone Block Cravings
14:56 – Navigating Stigma: "Replacing One Drug with Another"
21:16 – How Monthly Injectables Change Compliance and Self-Stigma
23:55 – The True Medical Risks of Untreated Opioid Withdrawal
Questions the Video Answers:
What is the difference between MAT and MOUD in addiction treatment?
How does Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) work for opioid addiction?
Can you use naltrexone for both opioid and alcohol use disorder?
Why do 12-step programs like AA and NA stigmatize Suboxone users?
How do monthly injectable addiction medications like Vivitrol reduce self-stigma?
What is the Sinclair Method for treating alcohol use disorder?
Is a person on MOUD considered truly sober and in recovery?
What are the side effects of buprenorphine vs untreated opioid withdrawal?
Does health insurance or Medicaid cover long-acting injectable opioid treatments?
Why is kratom considered an emerging and dangerous opioid alkaloid?
How do trauma and deep emotional disconnection cause substance abuse?
How can family members support a loved one starting buprenorphine?
#OpioidAddiction #SuboxoneRecovery #AddictionMedicineEMDR Therapy vs Brainspotting: Why Your Brain Needs More Than Talk Therapy
What is brainspotting therapy and how does it actually work? Dr. Jenny Hughes, licensed clinical psychologist and trauma expert, explains this revolutionary approach to healing trauma — including how it differs …
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What is brainspotting therapy and how does it actually work? Dr. Jenny Hughes, licensed clinical psychologist and trauma expert, explains this revolutionary approach to healing trauma — including how it differs from EMDR, why where you look affects how you feel, and what happens during a real brainspotting session.
In this interview, Dr. Hughes breaks down the science behind brainspotting: how it accesses the subcortical parts of your brain where trauma is stored, why you don't need to talk through your trauma for it to work, and the accidental discovery by David Grand that changed trauma therapy forever.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 — Intro: What Is Brainspotting?
1:33 — Myth or Fact Lightning Round
5:11 — The Accidental Discovery (David Grand & the Skater)
8:15 — EMDR vs. Brainspotting: Quick Overview
8:49 — How Brainspotting Actually Works
10:08 — The "Inside Window" & Finding Your Brain Spot
10:52 — Focused Mindfulness & the Subcortical Brain
12:26 — The Pointer, Variations & Therapist Training
13:33 — Why Therapists Experience Brainspotting First
15:21 — EMDR vs. Brainspotting: The Key Differences
16:50 — What Changes After Brainspotting Therapy
18:15 — Which Therapy Is Right for You?
🔗 ABOUT DR. JENNY HUGHES
Dr. Jenny Hughes is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and evidence-based therapies including Brainspotting and EMDR.
🎙️ ABOUT RECOVERABLE
RECOVERable answers the internet's most-asked questions about mental health, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction recovery — through expert interviews you can actually understand.
Find the right treatment for you at Recovery.com
https://www.recovery.comEMDR Therapy: Can It Heal Your Trauma? (Part 1)
EMDR therapy is one of the most effective treatments for trauma, anxiety, and PTSD — and most people have never heard of it.In this episode of RECOVERable, licensed clinical psychologist and trauma expert Dr …
Shownotes
EMDR therapy is one of the most effective treatments for trauma, anxiety, and PTSD — and most people have never heard of it.
In this episode of RECOVERable, licensed clinical psychologist and trauma expert Dr. Jenny Hughes breaks down exactly what EMDR therapy is, how it works, and whether it's right for you.
Dr. Hughes covers:
✔ What EMDR therapy actually is — and what it isn't
✔ How trauma gets "stuck" in your brain (and how EMDR unsticks it)
✔ The difference between EMDR and traditional talk therapy
✔ All 8 phases of an EMDR session, explained step-by-step
✔ Whether EMDR works for anxiety, depression & complex PTSD
✔ Common myths about EMDR — and what the science says
✔ Why you should NEVER try to do EMDR on your own
✔ How to find a certified EMDR therapist
If you've been struggling with trauma, anxiety, or depression — and feel stuck — this conversation gives you a clear, practical understanding of one of the most powerful healing tools available.
——————————————————————
🕒 CHAPTERS
0:00 — Introduction: What Is EMDR Therapy?
1:12 — How Trauma Affects Your Brain
3:02 — Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Therapy
3:37 — EMDR Myth vs. Fact ⚡ Lightning Round
9:47 — What EMDR Therapy Actually Is
12:05 — How to Find the Right EMDR Therapist
13:41 — EMDR vs. Brain Spotting: What's the Difference?
14:37 — What Can EMDR Treat?
15:58 — The Science & Research Behind EMDR
18:13 — What a Client Experiences During EMDR
22:33 — EMDR Session Walkthrough: All 8 Phases
36:35 — Do You Have to Relive Your Trauma?
39:33 — EMDR vs. Talk Therapy
41:09 — What If You Don't Know What to Target?
43:17 — Risks of EMDR Therapy
44:25 — Can You Do EMDR on Yourself?
45:59 — Does EMDR Work for Anxiety & Depression?
50:01 — In-Person vs. Virtual EMDR
51:20 — Where to Find Help & What's Next
——————————————————————
RECOVERable is a production of Recovery.com — the best place to find mental health and addiction treatment.
Find the right treatment for you at Recovery.com
https://recovery.comHow to Stop Drinking Every Night: Is It Normal? Alcohol Use Disorder Explained
Alcohol use disorder vs. gray area drinking — what's the difference, and how do you know when your drinking has become a problem?In this episode, licensed clinical social worker and national mental health …
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Alcohol use disorder vs. gray area drinking — what's the difference, and how do you know when your drinking has become a problem?
In this episode, licensed clinical social worker and national mental health expert Kelley Kitley breaks down the real signs of alcohol use disorder (AUD), explains what "gray area drinking" actually means, and answers the question so many people are afraid to ask: am I an alcoholic?
Kelley draws on both her clinical expertise and her own personal recovery journey to help you understand:
✔ The DSM criteria for alcohol use disorder
✔ What gray area drinking looks like — and why it's so easy to miss
✔ Why drinking every night is NOT normal, and what it does to your body
✔ How to talk to a loved one about their drinking without pushing them away
✔ The difference between supporting someone and enabling them
✔ Treatment options: therapy, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), 30-day inpatient, and medical detox
✔ What medications like Naltrexone do for alcohol cravings
✔ Why relapse doesn't mean failure — and when recovery finally "clicks"
Whether you're questioning your own drinking, worried about someone you love, or just trying to understand alcohol addiction recovery, this conversation is for you.
0:00 — Introduction
1:26 — What Is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?
3:05 — Gray Area Drinking: Are You in the Gray Zone?
4:11 — Is It Normal to Drink Every Night?
5:55 — How Alcohol Destroys Your Sleep
7:30 — "I Don't Have an Off Switch" — Kelley's Personal Story
9:44 — Why Trying to Moderate Drinking Rarely Works
11:24 — What Happens When You Quit Drinking
13:23 — How Alcohol Affects Your Kids & Genetic Risk
15:56 — The Moment Kelley Decided to Get Sober
18:29 — How to Talk to a Loved One About Their Drinking
21:56 — Setting Boundaries vs. Enabling
25:15 — How to Encourage Someone to Seek Treatment
30:03 — Treatment Options: Therapy, IOP & Inpatient Rehab
34:14 — What Medical Detox Actually Involves
37:49 — Why Relapse Is Not a Failure
41:15 — Naltrexone & Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
43:32 — Where to Find Help & Resources
Kelley Kitley is a licensed clinical social worker, national mental health expert, and person in long-term recovery. She specializes in breaking cycles of trauma and addiction using a holistic approach.
#AlcoholUseDisorder #GrayAreaDrinking #AddictionRecovery
Find the right treatment for you at Recovery.com
https://www.recovery.comAlcohol Addiction Symptoms: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Alcohol use disorder and gray area drinking affect millions who wonder "am I an alcoholic?" — but don't fit the stereotype. Licensed clinical social worker Kelley Kitley shares her personal recovery story …
Shownotes
Alcohol use disorder and gray area drinking affect millions who wonder "am I an alcoholic?" — but don't fit the stereotype. Licensed clinical social worker Kelley Kitley shares her personal recovery story and 20+ years of professional expertise to help you recognize the signs of problem drinking, understand the difference between sobriety and recovery, and find practical strategies for moderation, tapering, and navigating social situations without alcohol. Whether you're questioning your own drinking habits or supporting someone else, this expert interview breaks down DSM criteria, internal warning signs, and health risks in plain language you can actually understand.
Find the right treatment for you at Recovery.com
https://www.recovery.com
0:00 — Introduction: Who Is Kelley Kitley?
1:03 — Kelley's Personal Story: From Bar Business to Recovery
3:07 — What Is Alcohol Use Disorder? (DSM Criteria Explained)
6:46 — Signs of Problem Drinking & Gray Area Drinking
11:14 — Coping Mechanisms & Social Anxiety Without Alcohol
16:50 — Internal Signs, Moderation Management & "Dry January"
21:30 — Comparing Drinking Habits & Hidden Health Risks
26:06 — Sobriety vs. Recovery: Why Just Stopping Isn't Enough
34:42 — Brain Repair Timeline & Tapering Strategies
37:25 — Managing Social Situations in Sobriety
#AlcoholUseDisorder #GrayAreaDrinking #SoberCuriousWhy Willpower Doesn't Work: A Neuroscientist Explains How to Rewire Your Brain
Can you really rewire your brain after years of addiction? Dr. Judson Brewer explains the science of neuroplasticity and the secret to unlearning any habit.In this second installment, host Terry Maguire …
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Can you really rewire your brain after years of addiction? Dr. Judson Brewer explains the science of neuroplasticity and the secret to unlearning any habit.
In this second installment, host Terry Maguire continues the conversation with world-renowned psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Judson Brewer (Dr. Jud). We explore why habits are formed to help us survive and how those same mechanisms can be hijacked by addiction . Dr. Jud explains the Default Mode Network and why it's the "home base" for cravings, worry, and rumination .
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Dr. Jud is the New York Times bestselling author of Unwinding Anxiety and The Craving Mind and currently serves as a researcher and clinician. In this episode, he breaks down why smartphones are essentially "pocket slot machines" that use intermittent reinforcement to keep us hooked . He also debunks the 21-day habit myth and shares laboratory data showing that reward values can actually shift in as few as 5 to 15 mindfully aware experiences.
Learn how to step out of the "shame loop" and into a "learning loop" by using curiosity as a clinical intervention . We discuss the HALT method (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) for identifying stress triggers and the neuroscience behind why meeting a need is always better than feeding a want . Whether it’s substance use, social media, or problematic eating, Dr. Jud proves that everything is recoverable if it is a habit.
Chapters:
00:00 – [Intro]
01:09 – Defining Addiction: Continued Use Despite Consequences
05:26 – Why Addiction is Not a Moral Failure
08:30 – The Default Mode Network & Brain Cravings
13:47 – How to Rewire Your Brain After Years of Use
20:13 – The 21-Day Habit Myth Debunked
27:14 – Are Cell Phones "Pocket Slot Machines"?
33:32 – Dealing with Slips and the "Shame Loop"
43:12 – How Mindfulness Rewires the Brain
51:18 – Dr. Jud's Advice for Loving Someone with Addiction
Questions the Video Answers:
What actually happens in the brain during a craving?
Is it really possible to unlearn any habit?
What is the Default Mode Network in the brain?
Why do slot machines and phones get us addicted?
How many times does it take to change a reward value?
Does a single slip mean I’m back at square one?
Can mindfulness help with addiction recovery?
What is the HALT method for stress management?
Why does curiosity help stop a craving?
Is addiction primarily about choice or survival?
How long does the brain take to form a new habit?
What is "Intermittent Reinforcement"?
How do parents protect their teenager's brain?
How do medications like methadone affect receptors?
Why is "meeting a need" better than "feeding a want"?
#Neuroscience #AddictionRecovery #HabitChangeHow Habits Are Formed: A Neuroscientist Explains the Science of Addiction
Stop fighting your brain and start understanding it. Dr. Judson Brewer reveals why willpower is a myth and how neuroscience is the real key to breaking bad habits.Find mental health and addiction treatment near …
Shownotes
Stop fighting your brain and start understanding it. Dr. Judson Brewer reveals why willpower is a myth and how neuroscience is the real key to breaking bad habits.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Learn more about Dr. Judson Brewer: https://drjud.com/
In this episode of RECOVERable host Terry Maguire sits down with Dr. Judson Brewer (Dr. Jud), a world-renowned psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and New York Times bestselling author of The Craving Mind and Unwinding Anxiety. Dr. Jud explains why the "just say no" approach fails and breaks down the evolutionary "habit loop"—trigger, behavior, and result—that keeps us stuck.
You will learn why dopamine is actually a "motivation molecule" designed for survival, not pleasure, and how to navigate the "three gears" of habit change: awareness, disenchantment, and finding the "Bigger Better Offer". Whether you are struggling with substance use, anxiety, or digital addiction, this conversation provides a science-backed roadmap to rewire your brain using curiosity as a superpower.
Dr. Jud also debunks common myths about "hitting rock bottom" and explains why the logical brain goes offline during a crisis. Learn how to ride out a craving in just 13 minutes and why your "survival brain" might be leading you astray.
Subscribe for Part 2 and visit mindshiftrecovery.org for more resources.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
00:48 – Myth vs. Fact: Is Addiction a Lack of Willpower?
05:58 – The Habit Loop: Trigger, Behavior, and Result
11:15 – Why Willpower is More Myth than Muscle
11:43 – Gear 1: Awareness and the "Why" Trap
15:22 – Gear 2: Finding Disenchantment with Habits
26:35 – Gear 3: The "Bigger Better Offer" Strategy
37:35 – Curiosity: The Superpower for Cravings
40:54 – Is Addiction a Choice or a Brain Disease?
53:21 – The Truth About Dopamine Fasting
Questions the Video Answers:
- Is addiction just a lack of willpower?
- Does dopamine actually make you feel high?
- Why is the teenage brain more susceptible to addiction?
- Can the brain fully recover from long-term drug use?
- Is sugar addiction the same as cocaine addiction?
- What is the habit loop and how does it work?
- Why do we keep doing things we know are bad for us?
- Can anxiety and worrying become a habit?
- Why doesn’t willpower work to stop an addiction?
- What are the three gears of habit change?
- How do you find a "Bigger Better Offer" in recovery?
- How long does a typical craving actually last?
- Is addiction primarily genetic or environmental?
- Why do people in addiction lie or steal?
- Is dopamine fasting a real scientific solution?
#Neuroscience #AddictionRecovery #JudsonBrewer
Eating Disorder Treatment: A Psychiatrist Explains Every Level of Care
Can you tell if someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them? Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar debunks the "healthy look" myth and explains why dieting is toxic to recovery. This episode explores the critical …
Shownotes
Can you tell if someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them? Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar debunks the "healthy look" myth and explains why dieting is toxic to recovery. This episode explores the critical "Nine Truths" of eating disorders, the role of genetics, and why early intervention is vital for long-term health.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In this deep-dive, host Terry McGuire continues the conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, MD, a triple board-certified psychiatrist and the Regional Medical Director at Eating Recovery Center. Dr. Wassenaar leads clinical excellence in treating complex eating disorders and guides families toward sustainable healing.
We cover the nuances of Binge Eating Disorder (BED)—the most common yet underdiagnosed type—and ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), a different entity driven by sensory avoidance or fear rather than body image. Dr. Wassenaar also breaks down the four levels of care: Inpatient, Residential, Partial Hospitalization (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient (IOP), helping listeners understand how much containment and support is necessary for true recovery.
Whether you are a parent looking for signs, a professional seeking evidence-based insights, or someone struggling, this video provides a roadmap for navigating the "crafty" nature of these illnesses. Recovery is possible, but no one has to do it alone.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
01:10 – Can you tell if someone has an eating disorder by looking?
05:02 – Why families are allies, not the cause
06:40 – Is it just a phase? The crisis of adolescence
11:02 – The role of genetics vs. environment
16:32 – Understanding Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorder
19:46 – What is ARFID? Disinterest and sensory avoidance
24:00 – Why "just eat" or "just stop" is dangerous advice
27:45 – Explaining levels of care: Inpatient to IOP
44:40 – How long does recovery actually take?
52:34 – Common eating disorder behaviors to look for
Questions the Video Answers:
- Can you look healthy and still have a severe eating disorder?
- Why is "you look healthier" a harmful comment?
- Do parents cause eating disorders in their children?
- Is an eating disorder a phase that teenagers grow out of?
- How does malnutrition affect long-term bone health?
- Are eating disorders genetic?
- What is the most common eating disorder?
- Can you have anorexia while in a larger body?
- What is Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)?
- Why doesn't dieting work for binge eating disorder?
- What is the difference between inpatient and residential treatment?
- Why do people with eating disorders feel they aren't "sick enough"?
- How does social media affect eating disorder recovery?
- What are the common signs of purging besides vomiting?
- Where can I find reliable eating disorder treatment?
#EatingDisorderRecovery #BingeEatingDisorder #MentalHealthMatters
Eating Disorders Explained: A Psychiatrist on the Signs No One Talks About
"You can have an eating disorder and not be in an underweight body." This powerful insight from Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, Regional Medical Director at the Eating Recovery Center, challenges everything we think …
Shownotes
"You can have an eating disorder and not be in an underweight body."
This powerful insight from Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, Regional Medical Director at the Eating Recovery Center, challenges everything we think we know about food, weight, and mental health. In this eye-opening episode of RECOVERable, host Terry Maguire sits down with Dr. Wassenaar to dismantle the dangerous myths surrounding eating disorders.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
Dr. Wassenaar, a triple board-certified psychiatrist, explains that eating disorders are real, brain-based biological illnesses—not matters of willpower, vanity, or "just a diet gone wrong". We dive deep into why these conditions are curable, the difference between "disordered eating" and clinical diagnoses, and the alarming rise of anorexia and bulimia in younger children.
We also address the "pathological aloneness" that often accompanies mental illness and why community and connection are the strongest antidotes to the isolation of an eating disorder. Whether you are struggling yourself, worried about a friend, or curious about the signs of eating disorders in men and boys, this conversation provides a compassionate roadmap for understanding and seeking help.
Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 00:32 – What is the one thing society should understand? 02:06 – Why are eating disorders considered a mental illness? 06:34 – Is there a typical age when they start? 08:37 – Why are eating disorders starting at younger ages? 12:22 – How should we communicate with each other about bodies? 14:53 – What does disordered eating actually mean? 19:54 – When does it become a medical or mental health crisis? 23:45 – How does tracking calories and macros play a role? 37:34 – What are the signs a friend might have an eating disorder? 50:17 – Do guys get eating disorders, too?
Questions the Video Answers:
- What is the difference between an eating disorder and disordered eating?
- Can you have an eating disorder if you aren't skinny?
- Are eating disorders a choice or a mental illness?
- What are the early warning signs of an eating disorder in a friend?
- Why are eating disorders becoming more common in children?
- How does social media impact body image and eating habits?
- Is it possible to fully recover and be "cured" from an eating disorder?
- What should I do if I feel suicidal due to an eating disorder?
- Do men and boys struggle with eating disorders?
- How can I talk to someone about their weight without being hurtful?
- Why do people use eating disorders as a way to regain control?
- What is the most fatal mental illness?
- How does "diet culture" reinforce disordered behaviors?
- What are the free resources available for eating disorder support?
- Why is connection and relationship important for recovery?
#eatingdisorder #mentalhealth #recovery
Childhood Trauma Healing: Is It Too Late to Recover?
Can you outrun a traumatic childhood? Dr. Christina Bethell returns for Part 2 to explain why an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) score is an indicator of risk, not a predictor of destiny. As a national …
Shownotes
Can you outrun a traumatic childhood? Dr. Christina Bethell returns for Part 2 to explain why an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) score is an indicator of risk, not a predictor of destiny. As a national leader in population health and systems measurement, Dr. Bethell has reshaped how we understand the "toxic stress" that accumulates in the nervous system when childhood trauma is experienced without buffers.
Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/
In this episode, we dive into the "Positivity Paradox" and the breakthrough research on Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). Dr. Bethell explains that the absence of positive experiences—feeling loved, supported, and heard—can be as detrimental to long-term health as the presence of trauma itself. We discuss why healthcare systems are often slow to screen for trauma and how the "medicine" of presence and connection can rewire the brain even decades later.
Our guest, Dr. Christina Bethell (PhD, MPH, MBA), is a Professor at Johns Hopkins University and the Director of the Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative (CAHMI). Her work proves that healing is a life process and that "more likely is not most"—meaning a high trauma score does not guarantee a future of illness or addiction. Whether you are struggling with your own past or trying to build a resilient future for your children, this conversation offers a roadmap for shifting from "fixing" to "connecting".
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Recap: How ACEs and PCEs intersect
05:03 – What does an ACE score actually mean?
08;23 – Are you "broken" if you have a high score?
10;43 – How do we get more positive experiences (PCEs)?
13;27 – Why don’t doctors ask about childhood trauma?
16;36 – Is the absence of "good" worse than the "bad"?
23;16 – The 4 indicators of family resilience
34;42 – Is it ever too late for adults to heal?
44;16 – Healing your relationship with your teenager
53;14 – A magic wand for society: Connecting vs. Fixing
❓ Questions the Video Answers:
What is an ACE score?
Does a high ACEs score mean I will get sick?
What is the difference between an event and toxic stress?
How do positive childhood experiences buffer trauma?
Why is emotional neglect so common and harmful?
Can I heal my nervous system as an adult?
What is the "positivity paradox"?
Why don't insurance companies cover trauma screening?
Can I build resilience with my teenager now?
What is "biobehavioral synchrony" in parenting?
How does trauma affect the immune system?
What are the 7 key PCEs for healing?
How do I reparent my inner child?
Why is "feeling heard" a public health priority?
How can I find safety if I grew up not trusting people?
#childhoodtrauma #mentalhealth #resilience
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