(The following story is fictional. It does not describe any real person, client, or recovery journey. It is a composite meant to reflect common patterns seen in people rebuilding their lives after severe substance addiction.) Tim:It’s good to see you, Luis. It’s been a while. How are you really doing? Luis:Honestly? I’m doing really well. Better than I ever imagined, if I’m being honest...
Shame can be powerful. It can stop behavior abruptly. It can shock people into compliance. It can create short bursts of control that look like change. But shame almost never heals anything. In recovery, shame often masquerades as motivation. People believe that if they feel bad enough, disgusted enough, or disappointed enough in themselves, they will finally change for good. Sometimes that works...