The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
Just a quick note guys since 2 posts had me wanting to share the same info. If you are looking for a therapist for yourself it does help to ask if they have 12 step knowledge and alanon knowledge. All therapists basically will say they have "expertise" in addictions because that is one of the largest issues people come to therapy for. That could me a million different things and they might not actually have the knowledge or framework of understanding you want. When I searched for my therapist, I made sure they had 12 step experience and knowledge and it has made a huge difference. Hope this helps. My therapist has decades of alanon experience and it has made a big difference.
Thank you for clarifying this in a post...after I posted this morning, it did not feel like I was really conveying what I wanted to say. Many therapists will say they have experience with addictions, yet, they don't really know the language and experiences of recovery. It wasn't until I had a therapist that could sniff out addictions, be confrontive and KNEW al anon, etc, did I begin to progress. She did not let me get by with any of my bs! I often left angry, but I kept going back. I am so glad my soul won out over my head/ego.
Thank you and I completely agree. Many therapists will assure that plenty of clients come to them regarding alcohol/ addiction issues and that they are perfectly capable of helping ... but this is not the same thing as a therapist with a deep understanding of addiction and a functioning experience and knowledge of the 12 steps, who can directly encourage and support a much greater opportunity for developing a healthier balance/ mindset.
