Pathway to Recovery

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In this episode of the 'Pathway to Recovery Podcast,' hosted by Justin B., the discussion centers on step seven of the 12-step recovery program, featuring Kahi W., a betrayed spouse of a sexual addict. Kahi shares her personal journey of the support she found in SAL 12-step meetings since 2012, and the vital role these meetings play in her healing process. The conversation delves into humility, the importance of community support, and the continuous action required for recovery, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging both strengths and defects, and offering them to a higher power. Kahi provides practical advice and shares personal experiences highlighting the daily practice of surrender and trusting in a greater power to manage life's challenges.

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In this episode, host Tara McCausland speaks with Jeanne Vattuone, LCSW, CSAT, and current APSATS president. She explains the evolution of the trauma-informed treatment model and its benefits for the betrayed and the betrayer over the traditional co-addict or co-dependent model. Jeanne also details the APSATS multidimensional partner trauma model phases: safety and stabilization, grief and mourning, and reconnecting and rebuilding. The episode underscores the importance of specialized care for both those struggling with sex addiction and their partners and how understanding the impact of trauma helps relationships heal. Jeanne emphasizes the necessity of proper education, consultation, and certified training for effective therapy, as well as the roles and values of the Association of Sex Addiction Partner Trauma Specialists (APSATS).

00:00 Betrayal Trauma Healing: Insights with APSATS President, Jeanne Vattuone
02:42 Journey into Sex Addiction and Partner Betrayal Trauma
04:58 Founding and Evolution of APSATS
16:06 The Importance of Qualified Therapy
20:05 Understanding Trauma vs. Other Models
23:34 Grief and Mourning Stage
23:47 Transition to Post-Traumatic Growth
24:12 Non-Linear Healing Process
25:37 Reconnection and Transformation
26:41 Challenges in Recovery
28:06 Compassionate Healing
31:47 APSATS Resources and Support
35:43 Trauma Model in Practice
44:19 Closing Thoughts

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In this episode of the Pathway to Recovery Podcast, host Justin B. guides listeners through step six of the 12-step recovery program with guest Brady W. Justin shares his experiences as a recovering sex addict and introduces Brady, who discusses his decade-long journey battling addiction to lust and his recent recovery with SAL 12 Step. The episode dives into Brady's personal insights on character defects like dishonesty, impatience, and selfishness, and how he has worked to overcome them through his higher power and community support. Justin and Brady also discuss the importance of willingness in recovery, the transformative power of community sharing, and offer advice to both newcomers and veterans in the 12-step program.

00:00 Introduction to the Pathway to Recovery Podcast

00:52 Meet Brady: A Journey of Recovery

02:08 Understanding Lust Beyond the Sexual

02:57 Steps of Recovery: An Overview

04:09 Brady's Experience with Steps 1-5

06:33 Diving into Step 6: Character Defects

15:54 The Importance of Willingness in Recovery

27:56 Healing Families Through Individual Recovery

38:24 Advice for Newcomers and Old Timers

40:12 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

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In this episode, host Tara McCausland speaks with Michelle Mays about the complex and harmful phenomenon of gaslighting. Mays explains the four types of gaslighting—lying, reality manipulation, scapegoating, and coercion—and the impact each has on those who experience betrayal trauma. The discussion delves into the mental health ramifications, the stages of gaslighting, and the journey of healing for both the gaslighter and the gaslighted. Emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and professional support, the episode offers valuable insights into overcoming the layers of self-deception and relational harm caused by gaslighting.

Connect with Michelle at www.michellemays.com or www.relationalrecovery.com

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:53 Podcast Update 
01:57 Introducing Michelle Mays
03:07 Understanding Gaslighting
03:47 Types of Gaslighting
04:29 Impact of Gaslighting on Mental Health
06:14 Scapegoating and Coercion
10:15 Recognizing Gaslighting in Relationships
14:39 Addicted Partner's Perspective
20:46 Stages of Gaslighting for Betrayed Partners
22:38 Stage Two: Defense Mechanisms
23:51 Stage Three: Depression and Despair
27:50 Understanding Betrayal Blindness
37:08 Healing from Gaslighting
46:12 Final Thoughts and Advice

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In this episode of the Pathway to Recovery podcast, Justin B. explores step five of the SAL 12-step program with guest Carolyn E. Carolyn shares her personal journey through the steps, particularly her experiences with Step 5, highlighting the importance of rigorous honesty, accountability, and the support of a sponsor. She discusses the challenges and blessings of managing shame, the role of God at her center, and the impacts of her recovery on her family. The discussion emphasizes that healing comes from within, supported by faith and the willingness to confront and share one's truth.

Register for the 2024 S.A. Lifeline Conference.
Learn more about our conference sponsor - Circles of Grace.

Healing Through Christ Workbook

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In this special episode of the Pathway to Recovery podcast, host Tara McCausland introduces speakers from the upcoming 2024 S.A. Lifeline virtual conference happening on September 26-28, 2024. The episode features insights from notable speakers like Janice Caudill, Dan Drake, Crystal Hollenbeck, Roy Kim, Tammy Gustafson, and MJ Dennis, covering critical topics such as betrayal trauma anger, the importance of group work in recovery, power dynamics, and sexual healing post-infidelity. Dr. Jill Manning also highlights the unique benefits of attending the conference, including reduced isolation, access to helpful resources, and the emphasis on both individual and couple recovery.

Register for the 2024 S.A. Lifeline Conference
Meet our sponsor, Circles of Grace

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In this episode, host Tara McCausland speaks with Dr. Stefanie Cranes about the challenges of defining and diagnosing sex addiction. Topics covered include the historical context for diagnosis problems, the stigma and societal misunderstandings surrounding it, and the prevalence and causes of sex addiction based on recent research. Dr. Carnes also shares the distinct impact of sex addiction on individuals and families, compares it to other addictions, and offers hopeful advice for those starting or already on their recovery journey.

REGISTER FOR THE 2024 S.A. LIFELINE CONFERENCE

Learn more about our conference sponsor,
Circles of Grace. https://circlesofgrace.health/

Resources and connect with Dr. Carnes:
sexhelp.com
iitap.com
[email protected]


00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement
01:35 Guest Expert Introduction: Dr. Stephanie Carnes
03:38 Challenges in Diagnosing Sexual Addiction
05:03 Historical Context for Diagnosis Problems
07:51 Impact of Lack of Diagnosis on Treatment
11:55  Disparities in Care
23:36 Neuroscience and Behavioral Addiction
26:46 Debate Over Terminology and Classification
35:17 Prevalence and Future Trends
40:23 Primary Causes and Research Insights
44:46 Resources and Final Thoughts

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In this episode, hosts Tara McCausland and Justin B. discuss the challenges and significance of Step Four in the recovery process. The hosts elaborate on the fears and barriers associated with Step Four, emphasizing the need for trust in God, honesty, time, and support from sponsors and group members. They address the added complexities for betrayed partners dealing with acute trauma and discuss the need for individuals and groups to acknowledge the trauma and provide space and time for partners to achieve adequate safety and stability before proceeding with step 4 work. The episode concludes with insights on embracing pain as a necessary step towards progress and healing.

00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement Click here to learn more about our conference sponsor, Circles of Grace.
01:49 Understanding Step Four
05:05 Personal Experiences with Step Four
08:52 Support Systems in Step Four
12:45 Addressing Betrayed Partners
20:05 The Role of Pain in Recovery
22:26 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of the Pathway to Recovery podcast, host Justin B., a recovering sex addict, discusses Step Four of the 12-step recovery program with guest Bill K. Bill shares his personal journey, exploring his struggles with sex addiction, his family’s history with alcoholism, and the impact of past traumas. He recounts his experiences working on a searching and fearless moral inventory, revealing both his weaknesses and strengths. Bill emphasizes the importance of honesty, forgiveness, and letting go of fears, illustrating how Step Four helped him uncover his sins and grace-filled moments, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of God's love and a path toward redemption. Key announcements include the virtual SAL conference and the podcast's sponsorship by Circles of Grace.

Register for the 2024 S.A. Lifeline Conference.
Learn more about our conference sponsor - Circles of Grace.

00:00 Introduction and Announcements

01:49 Introduction to Step Four

02:33 Bill K's Background and Journey

03:21 The Impact of Addiction

05:16 Facing the Past and Finding Recovery

08:00 Understanding Step Four

14:24 The Role of a Sponsor

16:02 Identifying Character Defects and Strengths

22:42 The Importance of Honesty and Vulnerability

29:44 Working Through Resentments and Fears

41:14 Addressing Harms and Making Amends

45:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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In this episode, hosts Tara McCausland and Justin B. discuss the concept of relapse in the context of recovery from sexual addiction. The main discussion revolves around whether relapse is part of recovery, differentiating between terms like lapse and relapse, and emphasizing the importance of rigorous honesty and a recovery mindset for long-term recovery. They also address the partner's perspective on dealing with relapse and the importance of having a relapse preparedness plan in place for safety. Throughout, they highlight the necessity of continuous and honest recovery efforts for sustainable recovery.

Register for the 2024 S.A. Lifeline Conference.
Learn more about our conference sponsor - Circles of Grace.
Check out Dr. Jill Manning's Relapse Preparedness Plan download.

00:00 Introduction and Announcements
00:21 Upcoming SA Lifeline Virtual Conference
01:56 Q&A: Is Relapse a Part of Recovery?
02:58 Defining Lapse vs. Relapse
04:11 The Importance of Rigorous Honesty
08:52 White Knuckle Sobriety vs. Positive Sobriety
12:04 Relapse Preparedness for Betrayed Partners
15:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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SA Lifeline Foundation
SAL 12 Step
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Contact to ask questions or make comments
Transcripts