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A CULMINATION OF OVER 40 YEARS IN THE ADDICTION AND TRAUMA FIELD
There is no returning to "normal". The only option is to move forward to create a "newer" healthier normal.
REVIEWS
A MUST READ for any family member or friend interfacing with any mental health issue. Dr. Michael Barnes and the Barnes Family Institute created a science-based model to help people interface with a mental health illness, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed. The book provides a comprehensive solution. The question is... are you ready?
Joan
5-stars on Amazon
This book is invaluable in understanding post-traumatic stress disorder, intergenerational trauma, secondary trauma, addiction, and how they affect the human condition. Dr. Barnes write in a way that is easy to understand and relate to as he weaves his own personal story throughout. There are many takeaways that one can use for personal growth!
Aimee
5-stars on Amazon
Dr. Barnes covers all the essential elements of knowledge for anyone looking to understand the impact of addiction on family systems. He introduces concepts and topics that are often overlooked. in particular the impact that families experience with traumatic stress related to their loved ones addiction. He does this in a way of breaking it down to make it understandable for anyone, not just those with a clinical background.
Maria
5-stars on Amazon
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
My 41 years as a counselor, clinical supervisor, counselor educator, and program administrator have informed my specialty in treating the impact of trauma, addiction, and life-threatening illness on individuals, couples, and families.
Despite our best efforts, these life-changing issues are difficult to solve. The longer people live with the problem, the more normal the anxiety, pain, and fear become, and the harder it is to gather the energy and insight needed to make the changes required to restore overall health. Over time, lives and relationships that were once satisfying and joyful become painful and conflicted.
I often hear families say that they wish their loved ones would get sober so the family can return to normal! The longer an individual and their family live with active addiction and trauma, a new normal has already formed. There is no going back to normal. There is only going forward to creating a "newer," healthier normal! Therefore, successful therapy is built on a foundation of client and family acceptance, hope, honesty, and the willingness to engage in difficult conversations. Healing occurs when individuals and their family members can move beyond the thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors that maintain their problems and begin to engage in new thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors that promote healing!
- Dr. B