Sponsors and Counselors

We believe in a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment. We offer medical intervention as well as counseling. We consider the combination to be good therapy. We also support and encourage clients to actively participate in a 12-Step program. One of the central elements of a 12-Step program has to do with getting a sponsor. There are differences in how sponsors and counselors accomplish their roles. Below are eight ways to tell the difference between your sponsor and your counselor (therapist):

• Your sponsor isn't all that interested in the "reasons" why you drank or used.
• Your therapist thinks the root of the problem is your negative self image. Your sponsor thinks the problem is you.
• Sponsors think your inventory should be about you, not your parents.
• Speaking of parents, your sponsor tells you not to confront them, but to make amends to them.
• The only time your sponsor uses the word "closure" is in front of the word "mouth."
• Your sponsor thinks anger management skills are numbered one through twelve.
• Now that you haven't drank or used in six months, your therapist wants you to make a list of all your goals for the next five years. Your sponsor thinks you should start today by cleaning coffee pots.
• Your sponsor will not lose their license if they talk to you about God.

Ground Rules For Recovery

1. Don't replace one addiction with another.
2. Separate truth from lies told to you about yourself. These lies are the opinions and perspectives of other people in your life who may not have your best interests in mind and who may have some hidden agendas.
3. Avoid returning to old people, places, and things…even when you believe that you can "handle" it now.
4. Don't blame yourself for everything that went wrong in the past.
5. Avoid relationships with others who are not pursuing recovery or a healthy life-style. Be around people who are good for you and challenge you to grow.

Medications

If you are taking any medication at all, please inform your counselor. If you are being prescribed any medication, even if it won't show up in a drug screen, please bring the documentation in so we can record it. Remember, some medications do not mix well with either methadone or suboxone. So, let's be safe and informed.