What Are “Natural Consequences?”
Understanding “natural consequences” and allowing them to play out when it’s safe to do so can be a force for change over time.
Author: Dominique Simon
Dominique launched Allies in Recovery in 2003. Her work has been featured on HBO and NPR. She is a facilitator and a trained speaker on issues of addiction and the family. She has worked extensively developing and evaluating federally-funded substance abuse programs for organizations and clinics throughout Massachusetts and New York. With an interest in recovery and substance abuse that spans 20 years, she sees a huge need to help families develop the skills to help a loved one recover fully in a supportive, whole, and lasting way in their families and in their communities. Her mission is to have Allies in Recovery fill that gap.
A Closer Look at Two Situations
A look at two situations from the AIR blog -- a woman who stops communicating, and a young man who wants to stay alone while withdrawing.
How Do You Slow Things Down if it Feels Like Your House is on Fire?
Become an agent of change -- by changing yourself. How do you step back, take space, and change the dance of the usual interaction?
Intention vs. Perception
We intend to be supportive, but aren’t always perceived that way. How do you hear when they feel upset, and shift back into connection?
What’s a Functional Analysis?
"Functional analysis" means figuring out what’s happening around a behavior, to go from reactive to having choice and influence.
Rupture and Repair
Some relationship moments feel like huge rifts. They’re opportunities to show you’re changing, becoming someone safe for them to come to.
Well-Worn Sayings
Do common sayings hold truth? We look at “hitting rock bottom,” and starting with one day. Both need slowing down, being in the moment.
Al-Anon vs. Allies in Recovery: How Our Approach Differs
At Allies in Recovery, we disagree with Al-Anon on one crucial point: A family member is part of the immediate environment and CAN create the conditio…
Consistent Practice vs. “One-Offs”
Don't just use CRAFT now and then. Learn one thing at a time, one day at a time. Practice the skills consistently, and change can happen.
Victim Stance: The “Why Me?” Episode
Feeling victimized means you're being passive. Shift focus--you have agency and control, and you're responsible for yourself and your care.