The holiday season is here, and with it comes the joy—and challenges—of family gatherings. In this special Thanksgiving episode of The Hanley Effect, our hosts tackle a critical topic: how to navigate Thanksgiving as someone in early sobriety. From awkward dinner table moments to supportive conversations with family, we explore practical tips and heartfelt advice for fostering connection and maintaining recovery during the holidays.

Tune in for a warm, humorous, and insightful conversation that celebrates love, acceptance, and the power of open communication.

1. The Importance of Communication

• Families should communicate openly with loved ones in recovery before gatherings.
• Example conversation: "We want you here and want to support your sobriety. What can we do to help you feel comfortable?"

1. Handling Pushy Situations

• "No" is a complete sentence. Practicing this response beforehand can make saying it easier.
• If faced with a persistent host, having a supportive ally—like a friend or partner—can help deflect uncomfortable pressure.

1. Preparation is Key

• Discuss potential challenges with a sponsor, therapist, or mentor before the event.
• Role-play common scenarios to build confidence in responding to difficult moments.

1. Lean on Your Support System

• Bring a trusted person to gatherings to help navigate tricky situations.
• Sharing your struggles lightens the burden and creates a sense of community.

1. Families, Show Love and Acceptance

• The core message for families: approach conversations with love and openness, asking how to best support your loved one.

1. Recovery Tools for Success

• Have a plan for handling questions or offers of alcohol.
• Stick to your beverage of choice and set boundaries as needed.

• “No is a complete sentence.”
• “The weight of struggles lightens when shared with others.”
• “Holidays are about connection and love, not the contents of your glass.”

Takeaway for Families:

Approach your loved one with curiosity and compassion. Open conversations are rooted in love, acceptance, and a genuine desire to support their journey.

Takeaway for Individuals in Recovery:

Prepare, practice, and lean on your community. You are not alone, and with the right tools, you can thrive this Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Hanley Effect!

For more insights, visit Hanley Foundation or call 844-502-4673.

In this compelling episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. Rachel Docekal and John Dyben are joined by special guests Turner Benoit, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Hanley Foundation, and Nikki T, a former patient and advocate in recovery. Nikki shares her powerful journey from addiction to becoming a successful advocate, mother, and professional in the field of forensic social work. Turner discusses the transformative programs at Hanley that are changing lives, particularly for pregnant women and mothers struggling with substance use. The episode highlights Hanley's new Casa Flores program, which provides comprehensive, family-centered support for women and their children, breaking generational cycles of addiction.

Key Points

1. Nikki’s Journey to Recovery

• Nikki shares her struggles with addiction, including the turning point of discovering she was pregnant while incarcerated.
• Her recovery began at Hanley Center, where she received treatment and support that transformed her life, helping her become a present and engaged mother.
• Now a forensic social worker and parent advocate, Nikki uses her lived experience and education to support families navigating addiction and recovery.

1. Casa Flores Program at Hanley Foundation

• Turner Benoit discusses the launch of Casa Flores, a dedicated program providing comprehensive care for pregnant women and mothers in recovery.
• The program aims to break cycles of addiction by offering a safe space for women to seek recovery without fearing judgment or losing their children.
• Casa Flores includes job training, early learning, and housing to help families achieve long-term stability.

1. The Impact of the Scholarships for Education

• Nikki shares how a scholarship from the Garwood Foundation, founded in memory of Mark Garwood, funded her educational journey.
• The Garwood Recovery Model supports individuals in recovery, helping them build a purposeful, self-sustaining life.
• Hanley Foundation’s partnership with the Garwood’s is helping to expand these life-changing services.

1. A Message of Hope for Families and Those Struggling with Addiction

• Nikki emphasizes the importance of hope and understanding for both those in active addiction and their families.
• She encourages those in addiction to reach out, knowing recovery is possible and there are people who truly understand the struggle.

Resources Mentioned

• Hanley Center Programs
• Casa Flores Program: Providing a pathway to recovery and family reunification for mothers in recovery.
• Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarships: Scholarships and support services for individuals seeking purpose through recovery.

Contact Information For more information about Hanley Foundation’s programs or to contribute to their mission, visit Hanley Foundation or call 844-502-4673.

Tune in next time for more stories of resilience, innovation, and hope from The Hanley Effect.

Show Notes for The Hanley Effect Podcast - Episode with Joshua Love

Episode Overview:

In this insightful episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with Joshua Love, the Clinical Director of Headwaters. With warmth and humor, they explore Joshua’s journey into the addiction and mental health field, his passion for family support, and Headwaters' innovative approach to treating high-net-worth individuals dealing with addiction. Recorded on Joshua's birthday, this episode dives deep into the personal and professional dedication that drives Hanley Foundation's work.

Key Discussion Points:

• Joshua’s Journey:
• Joshua shares his journey from his early teenage years, influenced by family and community values, to his current role. He reflects on how personal experiences, such as the loss of a family member to AIDS and the role of stigma, shaped his commitment to helping those struggling with addiction.
• Headwaters Program at Hanley Foundation:
• Joshua describes Headwaters’ unique approach, which serves executives, celebrities, and other high-profile individuals in a private, supportive environment. He emphasizes the importance of confidentiality, trust, and creating spaces where patients can confront societal pressures and embrace sobriety.
• Family Support and Community Engagement:
• A cornerstone of Hanley’s treatment is its free, weekly family support groups, where family members connect, share experiences, and support each other. These groups have grown into a powerful resource that includes attendees from other states and even internationally.
• Innovative Treatment Approaches:
• Headwaters integrates advanced biometric and genetic testing, food sensitivity assessments, and personalized wellness plans. By providing real-time feedback, clients gain insights into their physical and mental health, enhancing their journey to recovery.
• Addressing Stigma Across Socioeconomic Levels:
• The discussion addresses how stigma affects people across all social classes, including those in positions of power. For patients at Headwaters, recovery includes redefining social interactions without alcohol and finding purpose outside their public identities.

Connect with Hanley Foundation:

For more information about Hanley Foundation programs, visit hanleyfoundation.org or to learn more about Headwaters visit headwatersfl.org call 844-502-4673.

Episode Highlights:

1. Joshua’s Background & Motivation – 00:03:17
2. Headwaters’ Family Programs & Community Impact – 00:04:49
3. Balancing Public Identity and Recovery – 00:13:19
4. Innovative Treatments at Headwaters – 00:19:34
5. Importance of Confidentiality – 00:27:40

Thank you for listening to The Hanley Effect! Join us next time as we continue exploring stories of resilience, hope, and recovery.

A First Responder’s Road to Recovery

Hanley Effect, a podcast brought to you by Hanley Foundation, is back with, as always, CEO of Hanley Foundation, Dr. Rachel Docekal, and Hanley’s Chief of Research and Innovation, Dr. John Dyben!

Tune in this week for a truly inspiring episode as we welcome Steve Campana, a retired firefighter/paramedic and EMS captain with an impressive 32-year career in the fire service! After dedicating his life to helping others (but don't let him hear you call him a hero!), Steve now focuses on assisting individuals battling addiction. He shares his transformative journey from the adrenaline-fueled world of emergency services to finding his true self through recovery and holistic healing.

Steve opens up about the challenges that he faced as a first responder, from compartmentalizing traumatic experiences to grappling with feelings of lost purpose after retirement. His candid reflections shed light on the true importance of emotional expression and mental health awareness in the first responder community. As he recounts powerful moments from his career, you can expect to hear how he learned to embrace vulnerability and prioritize authenticity!

We also meet the true special guest of the show - Mac, Steve’s adorable therapy dog, who plays a pivotal role in his healing journey! Mac was trained through the Paws and Stripes program which pairs therapy dogs with first responders. Together, they explore the profound impact of canine companionship on mental health and recovery.

Prepare to be inspired by Steve's resilience, wisdom, and the unconditional love of his furry friend. Whether you're a first responder, in recovery, or simply curious about the power of personal growth, this episode promises to resonate deeply and ignite hope!

In This Episode:

[02:48] - Hear how Steve embraces his authentic self at Hanley, unlike his past as a firefighter.

[04:26] - We learn that Steve spent 32 years with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, starting as a police explorer.

[06:58] - Select firefighter paramedics can become SWAT deputies, which excited Steve during operations.

[09:32] - Learn why Steve does not consider himself a hero.

[12:48] - Steve admits that he used compartmentalization as a tool, reaching a breaking point while hiding his trauma.

[15:33] - Overwhelming stress led Steve to rely on drugs and alcohol during his late 20s.

[17:00] - Steve feels that the first responder community's mental health culture is improving but still needs progress.

[19:20] - From a young age, Steve felt different growing up, prioritizing image over leadership opportunities and neglecting his team.

[21:29] - Hear how a woman Steve met changed his retirement plans after he shared his past with her.

[23:56] - Despite adversity, Steve maintained positivity, gaining respect and realizing his leadership shortcomings.

[27:20] - Steve's therapy dog Mac assists first responders, connecting to Steve's own experiences.

[31:42] - The Paws and Stripes program trains therapy dogs, caring for them prior to adoption.

[35:22] - Since COVID, Mac has become well-known at Hanley, helping reduce stress on campus.

[38:10] - Steve reveals that Mac will soon assist in group sessions.

[41:07] - Steve envisions a three-dog unit at Hanley to provide support for all patients.

[42:46] - Steve stresses the importance of reaching out to support fellow first responders in pain.

[45:30] - The new facility will reflect Hanley’s unique style with innovative features for success.

Links and Resources:

Hanley’s Patriot Program

844-502-4673

Hanley Effect, Hanley Foundation's podcast, is back with the CEO of Hanley Foundation, Dr. Rachel Docekal, and Hanley's Chief of Research and Innovation, Dr. John Dyben!

In this episode, we are also joined by Jerry Moe, MA., an infectiously passionate advocate for children impacted by addiction, to discuss his remarkable journey and the incredibly pivotal work that he is doing with Sesame Street. Jerry is the Senior Clinical Advisor at National Association for Children Impacted by Addiction (NACoA). He is the National Director of Children's Programs, Emeritus, at Hazelden Betty Ford. Jerry is an author, speaker, and consultant on issues for children and families hurt by addiction. Jerry's work is featured in the PBS documentary Lost Childhood and has contributed to Emmy Award-winning programs on both Nickelodeon and PBS's Sesame Street.

Jerry opens up about his personal experiences growing up in a family with a history of alcoholism, sharing how he navigated his own struggles while witnessing his parents find recovery. His story reflects the importance of healing early on, as he emphasizes the need for support and guidance for children facing similar challenges.

We also dive into Jerry's impactful work on Sesame Street, on which he collaborates with a dedicated team to create resources aimed at helping children understand and cope with the complexities of addiction. Jerry illustrates how these concepts can empower young minds with a focus on the "7 Cs" (principles that guide children in recognizing and caring for themselves while dealing with familial struggles).

Jerry reveals how, via engaging activities and compassionate storytelling the team creates safe spaces for children to express their feelings and understand that addiction is a disease, not a personal failing. As he shares heartfelt anecdotes from his experiences, it becomes clear that the goal is to educate children and help families heal and build healthier legacies.

Tune in to hear Jerry's inspiring insights and learn how you can support children navigating the challenges of addiction in their lives. This episode is truly a testament to the resilience of families and the transformative power of empathy and understanding!

In This Episode:

[02:12] - Learn how Jerry struggled with alcoholism in his family but found recovery and support in programs.

[05:49] - Mark Twain emphasized the importance of understanding one's purpose in life.

[06:40] - Jerry respects Sesame Street for addressing children's trauma and advocating for affected families.

[09:47] - Jerry discusses how the Seven Cs guide kids' healing, emphasizing self-care and healthy choices for recovery.

[11:07] - Jerry aimed to create a child-centered program for families impacted by addiction and healing.

[14:43] - Jerry emphasizes reframing addiction discussions to separate the disease from the loved ones affected.

[16:58] - Hear how children enthusiastically engage with the concepts of treatment and recovery to combat addiction.

[18:57] - Jerry wants to prevent children from experiencing addiction trauma by promoting early healing.

[21:02] - Jerry calls attention to a flawed statistic about kids living with addiction, noting that reality shows an even higher prevalence.

[23:12] - Kids often understand more about their surroundings than adults realize; communication should be careful.

[25:00] - Jerry notes that children often share feelings in programs, using age-appropriate explanations about addiction.

[28:07] - Trauma leads kids to blame themselves, but shifting the narrative can spark healing and realization.

[30:59] - Jerry touches upon double standards in treatment and argues that connections between moms and kids improve recovery.

[34:21] - Rachel discusses a new program for women and children, addressing treatment's stigma and impact.

[35:06] - Stigma keeps people sick.

[38:29] - How can we combat stigma?

Links and Resources:

Hanley Foundation's Child-Centered Family Program

844-502-4673

Sesame Workshop - Remember the 7 Cs!

Welcome back to The Hanley Effect, Hanley Foundation’s podcast, with CEO, Dr. Rachel Docekal and Hanley’s Chief of Research and Innovation, Dr. John Dyben.

In this episode, we explore the complex relationship between mental health and addiction. We tackle the pressing issue of mental health stigma in today’s society, despite the increasing openness around these discussions. John shares a powerful analogy about casseroles, illustrating how society readily supports physical ailments but often shies away from offering the same kindness to those facing mental health challenges.

We have a deep discussion regarding the necessity of treating mental health conditions alongside addiction, highlighting the importance of a holistic, empathetic approach. John provides insights into the unique treatment programs at Hanley, where the environment is intentionally designed to promote dignity and healing. We also discuss the alarming rise of psychosis linked to high doses of THC, underscoring the critical need for public awareness and education about the realities of substance use.

You can expect to gain a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of mental health and addiction, as well as the vital importance of compassionate care. If you’re interested in mental health, addiction recovery, or simply want to learn more about supporting loved ones in their journey, then this episode is definitely a must-listen for you!

In This Episode:

[02:35] - John acknowledges increasing discussions about mental health, but stigma around severe conditions persists.

[05:51] - The environment in mental health programs affects perceptions of worth and dignity for patients.

[06:45] - Rachel reveals that Hanley has two campuses, one open to the public and another with beautiful treatment pavilions.

[09:36] - Many addiction treatment clients also face co-occurring mental health disorders that require simultaneous treatment.

[11:20] - John explains that comprehensive treatment considers individuals as whole people, including their mental, physical, and spiritual aspects.

[13:54] - Effective mental health care involves evidence-based therapies, medication, and a dignified living environment.

[16:42] - We learn that Hanley’s mental health program emphasizes a holistic approach, including high-quality, organic food.

[19:07] - Rachel raises concerns about marijuana as a gateway drug, especially due to high THC levels today.

[21:36] - John recalls seeing psychotic breaks in young adults due to high-frequency and high-dosage THC use.

[24:15] - Accurate information about marijuana and its effects on mental health is essential for public awareness.

[27:01] - Potential clients begin treatment at Hanley through an assessment process via phone calls with case managers.

Links and Resources:

Hanley Foundation - Website

844-502-4673

Welcome, everyone, to Hanley Effect, a podcast in association with Hanley Foundation. Whether it's recovering from addiction, trauma, mental health challenges or any other life obstacles, this podcast is your safe space for inspiration, guidance, and real stories of triumph!

CEO of Hanley Foundation, Dr. Rachel Docekal, as well as Hanley’s Chief of Research and Innovation, Dr. John Dyben, discuss the complexities of addiction and how it affects not just individuals but also entire families and communities, spanning across generations.

Rachel kicks things off by shedding light on how Hanley has innovated treatment specifically for older adults, addressing the unique challenges that they face in recovery. You’ll hear about the importance of creating a safe space where people from the same generation can connect, empathize, and heal together, emphasizing just how important that it is to tailor treatment approaches to meet the specific needs of different age groups.

Dr. Dyben also examines the science of addiction and how it’s more than just a disease of the brain. He shares his journey from seminary school to becoming a leader in addiction treatment, and we talk about the parallels between the fight against AIDS and the battle against addiction - how societal change and innovation are crucial to making real progress.

We also touch on some of the groundbreaking research happening at Hanley, with the aim being to shift how we as a society treat and understand addiction. Dr. Dyben's insights into trauma, family dynamics, and the broader implications of addiction are truly eye-opening, and Rachel’s enthusiasm for the future of behavioral health is inspiring to say the least.

Buckle up for a conversation that’s as informative as it is inspiring. We talk about tangible solutions for tangible problems and how, together, we can create a world free of addiction! Until next time, keep embracing your recovery and thriving in your story!

In This Episode:

[01:02] - Rachel highlights that older adults in treatment fare better when grouped by generation because they benefit from shared backgrounds and experiences.

[03:41] - Beginning his career in church ministry, Dr. Dyben transitioned to addiction treatment and found a true calling at Hanley Foundation.

[05:41] - Hear how, fascinated by the influence of social factors on health, Dr. Dyben now leads research and innovation in addiction treatment.

[07:04] - Dr. Dyben focuses on elevating addiction treatment research to the same level as other diseases.

[10:08] - Dr. Dyben reflects on how societal changes, especially the humanization of AIDS, were crucial in advancing AIDS research and treatment.

[11:56] - Dr. Dyben describes guinea worm disease's near-eradication and its parallels with addiction treatment.

[14:58] - Cory discusses changing attitudes toward AIDS and the importance of addressing trauma in addiction.

[16:27] - Better understanding addiction reduces stigma and encourages empathy and treatment.

[17:49] - Rachel shares having refused opiates for her daughter's surgery, advocating for alternative pain management.

[19:55] - Rachel warns against unnecessary opiate prescriptions and advises proper disposal of unused medication.

[21:58] - Addiction is a neurobiological disease, affecting people beyond moral or intellectual weakness.

[24:11] - Learn how addiction impairs impulse control by reducing blood flow to the prefrontal cortex.

[26:29] - Rachel advocates for more realistic addiction portrayals and notes Hanley Foundation’s role in treatment.

Links and Resources:

Hanley Foundation - Website

844-502-4673