Relationships and Recovery

One of the most challenging aspects of the recovery process is integrating this new behavior and sense of self into old relationships.  If you feel good about your progress and commitment to a new life of sobriety, you may still encounter difficulties bringing this newfound behavior into your old life; especially when those relationships bear the scars of prior destructive behavior relating to the addiction.  You might be full of hope and courage, only to find yourself back in the mire of old patterns of relating.  Sometimes these patterns of relating with those we love can act as triggers and make the process of staying on the path of recovery even more difficult.  In addition, loved ones might be harboring resentment and anger from dealing with the addicted person’s past destructive behaviors.  These old wounds need attention and healing if all parties are to move on to more healthful and supportive ways of relating.  At the same time, how and when one brings these issues up is crucial for all parties involved.


“You might be full of hope and courage, only to find yourself back in the mire of old patterns of relating. Sometimes these patterns of relating with those we love can act as triggers and make the process of staying on the path of recovery even more difficult.”

Depending on where one is in the recovery process, this important issue of navigating close personal relationships can be fraught with challenges.  Well-intentioned conversations can easily get derailed and cause more pain and suffering for the person in recovery and for their loved ones.  In these instances it can be beneficial to work with a person who understands the recovery process and has skills in helping relationships heal and mend.  I am passionate about helping individuals find their way towards more healthful ways of relating that can be supportive to the recovery process itself, as well as bringing people closer in a safe and facilitative environment.

To this end, I offer outpatient therapy for individuals who are in recovery, and for their significant others.  I would by happy to discuss various options of assistance.  I see individuals, couples, and families in both my Encino and Irvine offices as well as by concierge.

Reach out for felt change – don’t suffer alone.  It is possible to find new ways of healing ruptures, mending long-standing hurts and living a meaningful life with those you love.


“…loved ones might be harboring resentment and anger from dealing with the addicted person’s past destructive behaviors. These old wounds need attention and healing if all parties are to move on to more healthful and supportive ways of relating. At the same time, how and when one brings these issues up is crucial for all parties involved.”