The Council on Recovery Welcomes Community Service Dog

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Meet The Council on Recovery’s newest team member, Emmy! Emmy, a three-year-old black Lab mix, came home to The Council’s therapist Sarah Myint, LMSW in August after completing more than a year of training to become a community service dog.

Emmy was born, raised, and educated at Canine Assistants, a non-profit organization based in Milton, Georgia dedicated to educating people and dogs so they may enhance the lives of one another. They specialize in placing service dogs with people who have difficulty with mobility, epilepsy/seizure disorders, or Type 1 Diabetes as well as dogs in community settings such as schools, physician centers, and rehabilitation facilities.

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Studies have shown dogs can provide comfort, companionship, and a distraction from unpleasant thoughts. Even just petting a dog promotes the release of hormones that can elevate mood, such as serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin. Therapy dogs have also been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, loneliness, and distress levels.

After learning about Canine Assistants from a friend, Sarah started the application process in January to receive a community service dog. While Canine Assistants has worked with many schools and hospitals, Sarah was the first applicant from a recovery center. Seeing the benefits of a new partnership, Canine Assistants graciously waived its usual fees, enabling Sarah to receive Emmy at no expense while also providing access for The Council’s clients!

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Sarah went to Georgia in July to meet Emmy and begin bonding. What makes Canine Assistants unique is its bond-based approach. Rather than focus on teaching the dogs to perform tasks on command, they educate people and dogs to develop mutually beneficial relationships. Sarah and Emmy bring this philosophy into their work here at The Council.

Sarah is a Therapist at the Center for Recovering Families within The Council, working with adults and adolescents who face challenges with addiction and negative mental health. Emmy has already been present in individual therapy and group sessions in intensive outpatient therapy; she will soon join school-based group sessions and The Council’s program for those seeking treatment through Felony Mental Health Court.  

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Even after just a few sessions, Emmy is recognizing participants. One adolescent stated she was “already thankful” to have Emmy in her therapy sessions, expressing how Emmy’s presence made her feel more comfortable being vulnerable.    

Sarah is excited to continue exploring opportunities with Emmy at The Council to help make therapy more accessible and approachable.

When not working, Emmy loves playing with her turtle plushy, splashing in puddles, and eating peanut butter. Be sure to say hi to Emmy and Sarah when you see them on campus!

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The Council on Recovery Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

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We are excited to share that after intense review, The Council has received a three-year accreditation from The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

Since our founding in 1946, The Council on Recovery has been at the forefront of helping individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by alcoholism, drug addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. 

We are proud to demonstrate our continued commitment to excellence by receiving a three-year accreditation from The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. CARF officially recognizes health and human service providers as having met rigorous standards for quality of service.

Achieving accreditation clearly shows The Council’s dedication to delivering safe, effective, and high-quality services and commitment to ongoing improvement.  

A three-year accreditation is the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization, following a rigorous peer review process and on-site visits. CARF accreditation gives confidence to our community that The Council is the place to start. 

For more information about CARF International, the standards, or the accreditation process, visit www.carf.org.

Houstonian Brené Brown Helps The Council on Recovery to Raise More Than $932,000

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Houstonian and New York Times bestseller Brené Brown inspired a crowd of more than 1,500 Houstonians at The Council on Recovery’s 40th Annual Spring Luncheon on Friday, April 19, 2024. Co-chaired by Diane Erbstoesser, Pasha & George Joseph, and Neeraj Parasher, the event raised more than $932,000 to help individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Board of Trustees member Jerri Duddlesten Moore welcomed guests and highlighted the Speaker Series’ legacy of education and awareness. Executive Pastor Matt Russell from Chapelwood United Methodist Church provided the invocation. 

The Council’s President and CEO, Mary H. Beck, LMSW, CAI, emphasized that recovery is at the heart of the organization’s mission. She highlighted the organization’s expansion of services and capacity over the past two years, which aimed to reduce stigma and enhance campus events. “Today is a living, breathing testament to this mission,” emphasizing the luncheon’s impact in fighting addiction stigma and fostering recovery paths. Beck also stressed the ongoing commitment to this mission beyond the event, stating, “Our mission lives on beyond these walls,” as she outlined initiatives to expand treatment, develop future leaders, and enhance community partnerships. Beck affirmed their continuous effort to transform lives, underscoring, “We continue to approach our work with intent and passion.”

Luncheon Co-Chairs Pasha & George Joseph, and Neeraj Parasher followed with moving testimonials on how addiction has impacted their own lives.

George Joseph highlighted the transformative impact of addiction recovery, sharing his own experiences and the pivotal role of community support. He emphasized the significance of recovery efforts, stating, “One person’s recovery can affect hundreds and prevent generations of dysfunction.” 

Joseph praised Houston’s extensive recovery resources, noting its position as home to the largest Council in Recovery. He celebrated the community’s role in reducing stigma and educating others about addiction, underscoring the importance of events like the luncheon in spreading awareness and support.

Neeraj Parasher shared his transformative journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the profound role of hope in his life. He recounted the despair of waking up alone on Christmas Day 2018, a pivotal moment that led him to seek help. “I’m just thankful to be alive and free,” Neeraj expressed, grateful for the support from his sponsor and the Alcoholics Anonymous community that heard his “screams for help.” 

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He credits his wife, Morgan, with providing constant support and a reason to maintain his sobriety. Neeraj also highlighted his rewarding involvement with The Council’s Cradles program, where he plays Santa at their Annual Holiday Party, describing it as the most wonderful part of his year. Through his experiences, Neeraj has redefined what it means to live a consequential life, aiming to be a reliable presence for others struggling with addiction.

Board of Trustees Chair Amanda Polich reflected on the Council’s commitment to making treatment accessible, noting, “We made a promise never to turn away a family in need of treatment.” To fulfill this promise, the luncheons have raised over $22.2 million. Despite the growth in treatment options and innovations, the cost remains a significant barrier. 

To address this, Polich announced the launch of The Council’s Treatment Fund, seeded by a $150,000 donation from an anonymous donor. She urged attendees to contribute, using the donation methods provided at their tables, ensuring that all funds raised would directly support families in need of treatment.

Keynote Speaker Brené Brown then took the stage in an entertaining, thoughtful, and inspiring speech. Brené Brown shared poignant reflections on the importance of sobriety in her life, stating, “Every meaningful and important thing in my life, I owe to my sobriety.” She emphasized the transformative role of connection in overcoming addiction, remarking, “In the absence of connection, there is always suffering.” 

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Brown highlighted the contrast between addiction’s isolation and the community’s power, expressing gratitude for organizations like The Council that champion support for those unable to afford treatment. She noted, “I’m so grateful for The Council and their commitment to doing work on the hardest edges of love.” 

Brown’s message underscored the necessity of community and mutual support in recovery, concluding with a powerful reminder: “We don’t have to do it alone. We were never meant to.”

How Mindfulness Meditations Can Help on Your Path to Sobriety

As you navigate the ups and downs of recovery, finding inner peace and strength becomes paramount. Mindfulness meditations offer a powerful tool to support you along this path, helping to cultivate self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience. One of the ways that this can be done is by implementing mindfulness meditation into your recovery plan. Mindfulness practices are an excellent way to empower yourself in your quest for sobriety and provide insights into incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine. 

Understanding Mindfulness Meditation

One of the primary challenges individuals face in overcoming addiction is learning to navigate the underlying emotions and triggers that drive their substance abuse. Mindfulness meditation provides a space for individuals to cultivate awareness of these internal experiences without becoming overwhelmed by them. By observing cravings, urges, and emotional fluctuations with a sense of detachment, individuals can begin to develop a greater sense of resilience and self-control.

Mindfulness meditation is a practice that involves bringing your full attention to the present moment without judgment. It is about tuning into your thoughts, emotions, and sensations with curiosity and acceptance. By observing these experiences non-reactively, you can gain insight into your thought patterns and behaviors.

The practice encourages you to anchor yourself in the here and now, letting go of worries about the past or future. Through mindfulness, you learn to cultivate a sense of openness and compassion towards yourself and others. It’s not about emptying the mind but rather acknowledging whatever arises without getting swept away by it.

In essence, mindfulness meditation is an inward journey. It is a process of self-discovery and self-compassion. It offers a space for reflection and introspection, allowing you to develop greater awareness of your inner landscape. Embracing mindfulness can be transformative on your path to sobriety, equipping you with tools to navigate challenges with clarity and resilience.

The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation in Recovery

Embarking on the journey to recovery from addiction can be a daunting and challenging process. However, incorporating mindfulness meditation into your daily routine can offer many benefits along the way.

Mindfulness meditation helps individuals develop self-awareness and emotional regulation skills. Being present in the moment allows one to observe one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment, allowing for better control over impulses that may lead to relapse.

Practicing mindfulness enhances resilience by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. This is crucial in managing triggers and cravings that often accompany the recovery process. By cultivating a sense of inner peace through meditation, individuals are better equipped to navigate difficult situations without turning to substances for escape.

Moreover, mindfulness fosters a deeper connection with oneself and others, fostering healthier relationships and support systems during recovery. It encourages compassion towards oneself and others, creating an environment of understanding and acceptance throughout the healing journey.

Incorporating mindfulness meditation as part of your recovery plan can truly transform your path toward sobriety, offering clarity, strength, and newfound perspectives along the way.

Overcoming Triggers and Cravings with Mindfulness

One of the key benefits of mindfulness meditation in the journey to sobriety is its ability to help individuals overcome triggers and cravings. When faced with situations or emotions that may typically lead to relapse, mindfulness teaches us to observe these feelings without judgment or reaction.

By practicing mindfulness techniques such as focused breathing or body scans, individuals can learn to recognize their triggers and cravings as passing thoughts rather than overwhelming urges. This awareness allows them to choose how they respond, empowering them to make healthier decisions in moments of vulnerability.

Mindfulness also helps those struggling with addictions to develop a greater sense of self-control and inner peace, reducing the intensity of cravings and making it easier to resist temptations. By staying present in the moment and acknowledging their thoughts without attachment, individuals can navigate through challenging situations with clarity and resilience.

Incorporating mindfulness into daily life creates a foundation for managing triggers effectively and cultivating a mindset that prioritizes long-term well-being over temporary relief. Through consistent practice, individuals can build mental strength and emotional stability, equipping themselves with powerful tools for maintaining sobriety.

Incorporating Mindfulness into Your Daily Routine

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can be a powerful tool for your sobriety path. Start by setting aside a few minutes daily for meditation or mindfulness exercises. Find a quiet place where you can focus without distractions. Begin by paying attention to your breath, allowing yourself to be fully present in the moment.

As you go about your day, try to bring awareness to your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Notice any triggers or cravings that arise and acknowledge them without reacting impulsively. By practicing mindfulness, you can cultivate self-awareness and learn to respond thoughtfully rather than reactively.

Find ways to integrate mindfulness into everyday activities like eating, walking, or even washing dishes. Stay connected with yourself and how you’re feeling throughout the day. Remember that consistency is critical, and even short moments of mindfulness can make a difference in staying grounded and focused on your journey toward sobriety.

Get Help Now

Incorporating mindfulness meditation into your journey to sobriety can be a transformative and empowering experience. By cultivating awareness, managing cravings, and finding support through mindful-based addiction treatment programs, you can navigate the challenges of recovery with strength and resilience.

The Council on Recovery in Houston, TX, has been dedicated to providing support and resources for individuals and families struggling with addiction for over 75 years. Our services range from prevention and education programs to evidence-based treatment options that cater to individual needs. We encourage clients to engage in mindfulness meditation and have witnessed how powerful this tool is for helping individuals overcome their addictions and live happier and healthier lives. With the increasing prevalence of alcoholism, drug addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders in society, our mission has become more important than ever before. 

We understand how overwhelming seeking help can be, which is why we strive to make the process as simple and affordable as possible. Let us be a part of your journey towards sobriety, one step at a time. Contact our team now at (713) 942-4100 to get the help you need.

The Benefits of Outpatient Treatment for Battling Addiction

Whether you’re seeking treatment for substance-use disorder for yourself or are considering a rewarding career in substance-use treatment, knowing the benefits of outpatient treatment can make it easier to determine if it’s the right setting for work or recovery for your situation. Outpatient care allows participants to continue staying at home while attending treatment for substance-use disorders. This can make it a realistic option for individuals with obligations like caring for their family or continuing to work as they pursue recovery.

The Benefits of Outpatient Treatment 

Understanding the top benefits of outpatient treatment can help you decide if this treatment is right for you.

1. Access to Clinical Case Management

For many people who are struggling with substance use disorder, addiction is just one of many struggles they may face. When you are having a hard time securing stable, drug-free housing, it seems impossible to recover from substance use. For this reason, outpatient treatment for addiction can help you stabilize your life in all areas with case management and access to other resources in the community at large.

2. Removal from “People, Places, and Things”

Deciding to recover from substance use frequently involves distancing oneself from the “people, places, and things” that could pull a person back into an addicted lifestyle. As you’re working on building a sober life, you may find that it’s tempting to spend time with people or settings that trigger urges to return to addiction. If you’re going to a partial hospitalization program or even a twelve-step meeting, you’ll have an “out” for times when old drinking buddies or other individuals with substance-use disorders ask you to spend time with them.

If you have just moved to a new place to get away from triggers for substance use, outpatient treatment can help you cope with the stress that comes with moving. It can also help you establish a community if you don’t have any sober connections in your area. Additionally, it can give you the tools you need to swap unhealthy coping skills like substance use for healthier ones that you learn in outpatient workshops, programs, and group settings.

3. Opportunity for Stabilization

If the idea of getting sober is new to you, you’ll want to give yourself the best chance of recovery by immersing yourself in an outpatient program. Outpatient treatment for addiction can open you up to possibilities you never even considered before by showing you what it’s like to have the tools you need to get and stay sober. Since outpatient programs can last weeks or even months, they provide a solid foundation along with accountability for you to stabilize after substance use.

4. Collaboration with Other Providers

Sometimes, we need specialized help to tackle specific issues. If you’re going to outpatient therapy for concerns that aren’t directly related to substance use, your outpatient provider may recommend that you seek help for substance use disorder. Since therapists can’t practice “outside their scope” ethically, they may refer you to outpatient treatment for substance use if they aren’t qualified to treat this type of problem.

5. Multiple Levels of Care

If you’ve never sought treatment for substance use, you may be surprised to discover that there’s no “one size fits all” approach to treating substance-use disorders. Everyone’s journey to recovery looks different, so substance-use treatment involves more than one level of care to meet different needs. For those who are at risk of relapse, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) may be enough to prevent relapse. On the other hand, those who are trying to recover from a relapse may need a higher level of care, such as partial hospitalization (PHP), to focus on developing skills for recovery several days a week for most of the day.

6. Treating Comorbid Conditions

Since conditions like depression, anxiety, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) go hand in hand with substance use, many outpatient treatment options for addiction also provide psychoeducation and treatment for these disorders. Some facilities even combine outpatient care for eating disorders with substance-use treatment to tackle both conditions at once. Although not every outpatient provider is equipped to treat comorbid conditions, some may have the qualifications to do so, making it convenient for individuals to treat more than one issue at once.

7. Intensive Options

When you think of “outpatient treatment,” individual therapy once a week may come to mind. If that’s not enough for you, you’ll be pleased to know that outpatient care for addiction has intensive treatment settings like IOP and PHP. Those recovering from addiction can “step up” or “step down” between levels of care as recommended by their treatment team to prevent relapse.

8. Connecting to the Recovery Community

Recovering from substance use can feel lonely. For many of us, it means cutting off friendships and relationships that fueled our addiction. As you give up certain relationships to recover, going to recovery groups and twelve-step meetings can help ease that sense of isolation.

9. Reduced Opportunities for Relapse

Outpatient treatment can be hard work that takes up much of your time. While it’s not impossible to relapse in outpatient care, accountability, urinalysis, and spending time in groups can make it more challenging to relapse. They can also raise the consequences of relapsing to motivate you to recover.

10. Forming New Habits

One of the main benefits of outpatient treatment is that it forces you to develop new habits. From waking up at a consistent time to expressing feelings you might have pushed down with substances, you’ll learn all sorts of new ways to cope with treatment. It can also help you develop the habit of voicing concerns and asking for help.

It is undeniable that the benefits of outpatient care are similar to the benefits of outpatient mental health treatment, with a few unique factors that differentiate the two. If someone has been referred to outpatient care for substance use concerns by a medical provider, it can be easier to focus on the potential downsides to this type of treatment, such as the cost or the time it will take to finish a program. Still, if you’re open to looking at the bright side, you may find that the pros of outpatient care for addiction outweigh the cons as you go through our list of the benefits of outpatient options for dealing with addiction below.

Get Help Now

The Council on Recovery has been a steadfast and reliable resource for individuals and families struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders since 1946. Our unwavering commitment to prevention, education, treatment, and recovery has helped countless individuals heal and rebuild their lives one step at a time. We understand that seeking help can be overwhelming, but we are here to provide thoughtful solutions that ease the decision-making process.

With our variety of outpatient treatment programs in Houston, TX, and our dedicated team of professionals, you or your loved ones can start the journey toward healing today by calling us at (713) 942-4100. Call our team now to schedule an appointment. 

How to Get Help for Addiction

Are you or someone you know struggling with addiction? If so, you are not alone. Addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. The good news is that help is available, and by knowing where to turn to, you can take the first step toward recovery. Our team at The Council on Recovery in Houston, TX, is here to help you get the treatment you need for addiction and to help you better understand what to expect along the way.

Recognizing the Problem

The first step towards getting help for addiction is recognizing that there is a problem. This acceptance can be a difficult and sometimes overwhelming realization, but it is vital to get better. Some clues that you have a substance abuse problem can include the following.

  • Do you find it hard to control your substance use?
  • Is your addiction interfering with your relationships, work, or daily life?
  • Have you tried to quit or cut back but failed?
  • Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop using?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it is best for you to seek help.

Reach Out for Help

Addiction is not something you have to face alone. Reach out to your support system, whether it be friends, family, or a group of people going through the same experiences. Talking about your struggles with addiction can be hard, but sharing your thoughts, experiences, and feelings can provide you with the emotional support you need.

You can also consider reaching out to addiction helplines, such as the National Helpline for Substance Abuse. These helplines can provide advice, resources, and referrals to treatment centers in your area. It is a great way to get yourself prepared to take action.

Research Treatment Options

Once you have admitted to yourself that you have an addiction and sought support, it is time to research treatment options. There are a few types of addiction treatment to consider, which can include the following.

Inpatient Rehabilitation

This type of treatment involves staying at a facility for a specified period. Inpatient rehab provides 24/7 care, support, and a structured environment to help you overcome your addiction.

Outpatient Rehabilitation

Outpatient programs allow you to receive treatment while staying at home. This is a more flexible choice for those with mild addictions or other responsibilities that stop them from being away from home for an extended period. In addition to outpatient treatment, telehealth services are another excellent resource that can help you on the road to recovery.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Some addictions, such as opioid or alcohol addiction, may benefit from medication-assisted treatment. This technique combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies to address the physical and mental aspects of addiction.

Consult With Professionals

Before making any treatment decisions, it is essential to consult with addiction experts. Our team at The Counsel on Recovery can help assess your needs and recommend the most suitable treatment options, including the following.

Addiction Counselors

These professionals specialize in treating addiction and can offer you counseling and therapy sessions to help you overcome your addiction.

Medical Practitioners

A doctor experienced in addiction medicine can evaluate your health and recommend suitable treatment options. They can also help manage any withdrawal symptoms or physical issues that may arise during detoxification.

Financial Considerations

Addiction treatment can be expensive, so it is essential to consider your finances when exploring treatment options. Contact your health insurance provider to inquire about coverage for addiction treatment. Many insurance plans now offer coverage for substance abuse treatment, which can significantly reduce the financial burden.

Some treatment centers and organizations also offer scholarships, grants, or sliding fee scales based on income. Research these options to find affordable or free treatment options in your area.

Enter Treatment

With research and professional consultations completed, it is time to take action. Select the treatment option that best suits your needs, considering location, finances, and personal preferences.

Entering treatment can be daunting, but remember that you are taking the necessary steps towards a healthier and happier future. Embrace the support and guidance the treatment center staff and fellow patients provided.

Expectations During Treatment

During treatment, you can expect a combination of counseling, therapy sessions, group support, and educational programs to help you understand and overcome your addiction. Treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The duration and intensity of treatment may vary depending on factors such as the type and severity of addiction.

Detoxification, the process of removing toxins from your body, may be necessary at the beginning of treatment. It is essential to be prepared for any withdrawal symptoms during this phase. Medical professionals will monitor and provide support to ensure a safe detoxification process.

Build a Supportive Network

Building a supportive network is crucial both during and after treatment. Connect with others who are going through similar struggles through support groups, 12-step programs, or online recovery communities. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your challenges can encourage and guide you.

Get More Information

Seeking help for addiction is not a sign of weakness but a brave step towards a healthier and happier life. Recognize the problem, seek support, research treatment options, consult with professionals, consider financial aspects, and take action to undergo treatment.

Embrace the recovery journey, knowing that a supportive network awaits you every step of the way. Remember, it is possible to overcome addiction and live a fulfilling life. The first step involves you reaching out and letting a professional guide you toward recovery.

If you would like to learn more about treatment options or details about the appropriate treatment methods for your specific addiction, please call us at The Council on Recovery at 713-942-4100 today. One of our caring team members will provide you with details. We can also give you support through the process to help make the transition easier and guide you down the right path. We aim to help reduce your anxiety and stress about seeking help. We look forward to working with you to help you get the tools and support you need to kick your addiction and enter a new phase of recovery that allows you to live free of substances.