In this insightful episode of Healing from Toxic Abuse, host Deborah Ashway, LCMHCS, LCAS welcomes Thomas LaGrave Jr., LCSW, an expert with over 35 years in the field of adolescent mental health. Thomas, a former Navy SEAL and currently a licensed clinical social worker, shares his compelling journey from addiction to recovery and his dedication to helping young individuals. He discusses his book 'Special Welfare Social Warfare' and the Honor Bound Academy, a nonprofit aimed at providing a rite of passage for adolescents. The episode covers his personal story, insights into the mental health challenges faced by today’s youth, and the importance of creating supportive environments to foster youths on the verge of adulthood.

TheHonorBoundAcademy.org

00:00 Introduction to Thomas J. La Grave Jr.

01:24 Thomas's Personal Journey with Addiction

01:58 From Navy SEAL to Recovery

03:30 Finding Purpose Through Helping Adolescents

06:15 Educational Pursuits and Professional Growth

08:05 Insights from 'Special Welfare Social Warfare'

11:49 Generational Analysis and Youth Challenges

19:47 The Honor Bound Academy: Vision and Structure

25:16 Mental Health Challenges for Adolescents Today

28:53 Struggles with Addiction and Technology

29:10 Reeducating Phone Usage

30:35 Honor Bound Academy's Approach

30:39 Building Self-Esteem and Confidence

30:54 Using Nature and Challenges as Tools

31:37 Addressing Failures and Learning

33:51 The Role of Parents in Child Development

34:41 The Power of Love in Recovery

36:39 Challenges in Modern Parenting

46:56 The Importance of Trust and Accountability

49:11 Conclusion and Contact Information