RECOVERable: Mental Health and Addiction Experts Answer Your Questions

Can your body hold on to trauma long after your mind has made sense of it? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with trauma therapist and author Simone Saunders to separate somatic therapy facts from social media hype.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Somatic therapy is body-based therapy that bridges the connection between the mind and body. It is far more than deep breathing or relaxation. Simone explains why you can understand your trauma intellectually and still feel stuck: your nervous system may not have caught up. She breaks down what it means that the body holds trauma, from muscle bracing and jaw tension to gastrointestinal issues, and how complex trauma like childhood emotional neglect builds up over time. Using the window of tolerance, she describes how hyperarousal (fight or flight, panic, anger, impulsivity, substance use) and hypoarousal (freeze, numbness, dissociation) can show up in adulthood. She also shares how the sweating she once thought was hyperhidrosis eased as her nervous system became more regulated.

You will learn what actually happens in a somatic therapy session, why consent and pacing matter, and why touch is optional. Simone explains why people who over-intellectualize often seek this work, how procedural learning drives automatic reactions, and why the real goal is choice. She compares top-down approaches like CBT, DBT and ACT with bottom-up approaches like somatic therapy and EMDR, talks about how long somatic therapy takes, whether online therapy works, and why viral techniques like ice-water face dunks are not quick fixes. She also suggests free starting points, such as noticing your hunger, thirst and sleep cues, and recommends resources from Janina Fisher, Pat Ogden and The Embody Lab.

Whether you have tried talk therapy and still feel stuck, or you are curious about healing trauma through the body, this conversation offers a clear and practical guide, plus a reminder that you are not a project to be fixed.

Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video with someone who is ready to reconnect with their body.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: Somatic Therapy Myths vs. Facts

06:00 – What Is Somatic Therapy?

07:20 – What Can Somatic Therapy Treat?

12:00 – What Does It Mean That the Body Holds Trauma?

16:00 – The Window of Tolerance: Hyperarousal vs. Hypoarousal

19:40 – Can Emotional Stress Cause Physical Symptoms?

21:40 – What Happens in a Somatic Therapy Session?

30:20 – Over-Intellectualizing: Why Insight Isn't Enough

34:20 – Procedural Learning and the Power of Choice

39:20 – Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Therapy

42:20 – The Risks of Viral Somatic Trends

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is somatic therapy and how does it work?
• Is somatic therapy just deep breathing and relaxation?
• Is somatic therapy backed by science?
• Do you have to relive your trauma for somatic therapy to work?
• Does somatic therapy involve physical touch?
• What is the difference between somatic therapy and talk therapy?
• What does it mean that the body holds trauma?
• Why can't I move on even though I understand my trauma?
• What is the window of tolerance?
• Can trauma cause physical symptoms like sweating, tension or stomach problems?
• What happens in a somatic therapy session?
• What is the difference between top-down and bottom-up therapy?
• How long does somatic therapy take to work?
• Are viral somatic techniques on social media safe?

#SomaticTherapy #TraumaRecovery #MentalHealth

Can you beat OCD by choosing not to act on your fear? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with OCD specialist Jenna Overbaugh to break down exposure and response prevention (ERP), the gold-standard therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

OCD is a two-part problem, obsessions and compulsions, and ERP is the two-part solution. Jenna, who brings both professional and lived experience of OCD, explains why the response prevention piece matters as much as the exposure, how safety behaviours and avoidance quietly keep the anxiety cycle going, and why traditional talk therapy can turn into verbal rumination and reassurance seeking that make OCD worse. You'll learn the difference between a thought and thinking, how to resist invisible mental compulsions by catching the question and not answering it, what an extinction burst is, and why the inhibitory learning model focuses on learning something new instead of waiting for anxiety to drop.

Jenna walks through how a therapist builds an exposure hierarchy using a 0-10 SUDS scale, why exposures should be collaborative and start at challenging but manageable, and how to postpone or reduce a compulsion when anxiety spikes. She covers how ERP compares with CBT, DBT and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), what research says about ERP alongside SSRI medication, whether there is a cure for OCD, the most common mistakes people make with self-directed ERP at home, and the red and green flags to look for in an ERP therapist. She also shares her own experience with false memory OCD as a new parent and describes lesser-known subtypes such as real event OCD and relationship OCD.

Whether you live with intrusive thoughts, love someone who does, or are wondering if ERP is right for you, this conversation shows how to make your life bigger so OCD gets smaller.

Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video to help someone with OCD know they are not alone.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: Why ERP Is the Gold Standard for OCD

02:40 – ERP Myth or Fact Lightning Round

09:00 – What Is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?

18:40 – What Does Sitting With Anxiety Feel Like?

23:20 – How Do You Stop Mental Compulsions?

26:00 – Habituation vs. Inhibitory Learning

33:00 – Is ERP the Same as CBT or Exposure Therapy?

42:00 – What Is an Exposure Hierarchy?

45:40 – Can You Do ERP at Home by Yourself?

51:40 – How to Find a Qualified ERP Therapist

54:00 – Lesser-Known OCD Subtypes

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy?
• Why is ERP considered the gold standard treatment for OCD?
• Does ERP make you face your worst fear on the first day?
• Can talk therapy make OCD worse?
• What is the difference between ERP and exposure therapy?
• Is ERP the same as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
• How do you stop mental compulsions like rumination?
• What is an extinction burst in OCD treatment?
• What is the inhibitory learning model in ERP?
• What is an exposure hierarchy and how does a SUDS scale work?
• Is ERP more effective when combined with SSRI medication?
• Is there a cure for OCD?
• Can you do ERP therapy at home by yourself?
• What should you look for in an OCD therapist who does ERP?

#ERPTherapy #OCDRecovery #MentalHealth

Do your intrusive thoughts mean you have OCD, or does everyone have them? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with OCD therapist Jenna Overbaugh to explain what obsessive-compulsive disorder really is, beyond neatness and hand-washing.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Host Terry McGuire sits down with Jenna Overbaugh, a therapist who spent nearly ten years treating the most severe OCD and anxiety cases at Rogers Memorial Hospital's residential program. She also has her own lived experience of OCD, which began after her son was born. Jenna explains that OCD is a two-part problem. Obsessions are unwanted intrusive thoughts, images, impulses or feelings that are ego-dystonic, meaning they go against your values. Compulsions are the physical or mental rituals you use to ease the anxiety those thoughts cause. She covers common types of OCD, including harm OCD, contamination OCD, hit-and-run OCD, 'just right' OCD, scrupulosity and sexual intrusive thoughts. She also explains Pure O and hidden mental compulsions such as rumination and self-reassurance. Finally, she covers how OCD differs from anxiety, why it's called 'the doubt disorder', and how genetics and stress combine to cause it.

Jenna describes exposure and response prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD. She explains why you should treat OCD like an allergy, not a diet, and how the simple phrase 'I'm having the thought that...' helps you step back from a frightening thought. She also points to the International OCD Foundation as a place to start. For families, she explains how reassurance and family accommodation feed the OCD cycle, and how to set caring, collaborative boundaries instead.

Whether you are wondering if your own thoughts point to OCD or you are supporting someone you love, this conversation offers clarity, practical tools and real hope: OCD is one of the most treatable mental health conditions.

Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery. Leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video to help someone who thinks they're the only one with these thoughts.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: OCD Is More Than Neatness

09:20 – OCD Myth or Fact Lightning Round

16:20 – What Is OCD? Obsessions vs. Compulsions

19:00 – Types of OCD: Harm, Contamination, Just Right & More

21:40 – What Is Pure O? Mental Compulsions Explained

29:20 – Isn't Everyone a Little OCD?

33:00 – OCD vs. Anxiety: What's the Difference?

34:40 – What Causes OCD and How Is It Diagnosed?

39:00 – ERP Therapy: How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts

46:40 – The OCD Cycle Explained

58:20 – Family Accommodation: What to Say Instead

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is OCD and what are its symptoms?
• Is OCD just about neatness, hand-washing, and germs?
• What does ego-dystonic mean in OCD?
• Does having an intrusive thought mean you secretly want to act on it?
• Isn't everyone a little OCD?
• What is Pure O OCD?
• What are the most common types of OCD?
• What is the difference between OCD and anxiety?
• What causes OCD and is it hereditary?
• How is OCD diagnosed?
• What is exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy?
• How do you manage intrusive thoughts without making them worse?
• Does reassuring someone with OCD help or make it worse?
• How can family members support a loved one with OCD without accommodating it?

#OCD #IntrusiveThoughts #MentalHealth

Is your drive to be flawless really high standards, or anxiety in disguise? On RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire and licensed therapist Marc Azoulay answer your top questions about perfectionism, burnout, and the all-or-nothing trap.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Host Terry McGuire sits down with licensed psychotherapist Marc Azoulay, who runs Men's Therapy Online and studied Buddhist psychology at Naropa. Marc explains perfectionism as a coping strategy driven by anxiety and fear that ties your worth to your performance, and how it differs from healthy high standards. In a myth-or-fact round and beyond, they cover procrastination as the other side of the perfectionism coin and how chronic stress affects the body. They also look at how parenting, Western culture, and social media feed perfectionism, how it relates to anxiety and OCD, and why it can lead to depression that feels like emptiness rather than sadness.

Instead of telling you to just chill out, Marc explains how to overcome perfectionism by fixing the "hole in the bucket," which means facing the core insecurity underneath. He compares CBT, which helps you cope and quiet the inner critic, with deeper psychodynamic therapy. He also explains why you need a support system and why you don't have to wait for rock bottom to start therapy.

Whether you are a high achiever who felt nothing after a big promotion or a procrastinator waiting for the perfect moment, this conversation offers a way to keep your ambition without burning out.

Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video with someone who is exhausted from trying to be perfect.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro

01:40 – Perfectionism Myths vs. Facts

11:40 – What Is Perfectionism?

14:20 – What Causes Perfectionism? Parenting, Culture & Social Media

18:40 – Is Perfectionism a Mental Illness? Anxiety & OCD

24:40 – Does Perfectionism Cause Depression?

30:00 – How Perfectionism Shows Up as Procrastination

33:20 – How to Overcome Perfectionism: Fixing the Hole in the Bucket

43:20 – CBT vs. Psychodynamic Therapy for Perfectionism

50:20 – High Standards or Perfectionism? The Takeaway

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is perfectionism?
• What is the difference between perfectionism and having high standards?
• Is perfectionism a mental illness?
• What causes perfectionism?
• Can parenting cause perfectionism in children?
• How does social media fuel perfectionism?
• What is the difference between perfectionism, anxiety, and OCD?
• Does perfectionism cause depression?
• How does perfectionism show up as procrastination?
• Can perfectionism affect your physical health?
• Are you born a perfectionist or can you unlearn it?
• How do I overcome perfectionism?
• Is CBT effective for treating perfectionism?
• Will I lose my edge if I stop being a perfectionist?

#Perfectionism #HighFunctioningAnxiety #MentalHealth

Why do men struggle to say "I'm not okay"? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with psychotherapist Mark Azoulay, LAC, LPC, CGP, founder of Men's Therapy Online, to unpack the unique challenges facing men's mental health today.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

From covert anger and workaholism to silent isolation and low testosterone, male depression often looks drastically different than traditional warning signs. Mark breaks down how traditional talk therapy can fail men, why action-oriented and experiential group therapy builds real emotional resilience, and how side-by-side connections help break down isolation. Whether you are a man looking to build sustainable mental strength, a parent raising adolescent boys, or a partner wanting to offer grounded support without enabling, this conversation provides direct, practical strategies to navigate male burnout, stress, and emotional literacy.

Subscribe to the channel for more actionable mental health conversations!

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro

01:00 – Why focus on men's mental health separately?

02:00 – Myth or Fact: Men's mental health lightning round

11:55 – Why is it so hard for men to say "I'm not okay"?

22:25 – How do loneliness and social isolation impact men?

35:45 – How can loved ones encourage a man to seek therapy?

41:15 – When does self-reliance start hurting someone?

42:30 – What can parents do to raise emotionally resilient boys?

54:45 – Is it normal work stress or high-functioning anxiety?

56:30 – How can partners support a struggling man without pushing him away?

Questions the Video Answers:

• Why is it so hard for men to admit they are struggling with mental health?
• What are the silent or covert signs of depression in men?
• Can low testosterone cause clinical depression symptoms in men?
• Why does traditional talk therapy sometimes fail male clients?
• How does overworking or intense gym routines act as emotional avoidance?
• Can men experience postpartum depression or grief after having a child?
• What is the difference between male loneliness and social isolation?
• How does peer group therapy help men build emotional resilience?
• Why are young men going online more vulnerable to radicalization and cynicism?
• How can a partner encourage a man to go to therapy without getting defensive?
• When does male self-reliance stop being a strength and become toxic?
• How can fathers model healthy emotional range and control for their sons?
• What parenting strategies help teenage boys build confidence and identity?
• How do you tell the difference between normal work stress and high-functioning anxiety?
• What message gives a young man in his 20s hope when he feels like giving up?

#MensMentalHealth #MaleDepression #TherapyForMen

What do the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous actually require? We break down the entire step-by-step process of addiction recovery and how it works.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Welcome back to part two of our deep dive into the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Host Terry McGuire is joined by recovery advocate Cliff McDonald, who has actively worked the AA program for nearly a decade. Together, they demystify each of the 12 steps, explaining how this decades-old blueprint operates in real life to help those in addiction recovery.

Cliff walks us through the sequential journey, from admitting powerlessness in step one, to understanding the concept of a "higher power" in step two if you do not believe in a traditional God. He explains how to create a fearless moral inventory, confront resentments, and navigate the challenging process of making direct amends to those you have harmed. We also explore the critical difference between basic sobriety and true recovery, highlighting the daily maintenance steps required to live a happy, joyous, and free life. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or trying to understand the AA 12 steps for a loved one, this comprehensive guide lays out exactly what to expect.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: Demystifying the 12 Steps
01:45 – Step 1: Admitting Powerlessness
07:49 – Step 2: Restoring Sanity & Higher Power
10:50 – Step 3: Turning Your Will Over
17:18 – Steps 4 & 5: The Moral Inventory
23:59 – Steps 6 & 7: Removing Character Defects
29:45 – Steps 8 & 9: Making Direct Amends
35:24 – Step 10: Daily Accountability
38:33 – Steps 11 & 12: Spiritual Awakening
46:48 – Sobriety vs. Recovery Explained

Questions the Video Answers:

What does step one of Alcoholics Anonymous require?
Do you have to believe in God to complete step two?
What does turning your will over mean in step three?
How do you make a fearless moral inventory for step four?
Who should you share your exact wrongs with in step five?
How do you prepare to have your character defects removed in step six?
What does step seven of the AA program entail?
Who goes on your step eight amends list?
When should you avoid making a step nine direct amend to someone?
How do you practice step ten on a daily basis?
How do prayer and meditation work in step eleven?
What does having a spiritual awakening mean in step twelve?
#12Steps #AlcoholicsAnonymous #AddictionRecovery

Are you wondering what actually happens at your first AA meeting or if Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with recovery advocate Cliff McDonald to uncover the truth about AA.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

With over a decade of researching and working the program, and seven years sober, Cliff brings invaluable firsthand experience to the table. Whether you are sober curious, exploring addiction recovery, or just want to understand how AA works, this conversation breaks down the 12 steps, what to expect when you walk into the rooms, and how the fellowship supports lasting sobriety.

Terry and Cliff don't shy away from the hard questions. They dive deep into the most searched criticisms: Is AA a cult? Is the program too religious? Does admitting powerlessness create learned helplessness? Cliff also debunks common myths surrounding Alcoholics Anonymous, explaining that it is a free, peer-led program that focuses on spirituality rather than strict religious dogma. He explores the concept of the "dry drunk," the difference between closed and open meetings, and why community is the ultimate antidote to the isolation of alcoholism.

If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol use, this guide offers calm, practical reassurance and a clear look at what the 12 steps actually ask you to do. Hit play to demystify the AA experience, and be sure to subscribe to RECOVERable for more insights into mental health and addiction recovery!

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro & Lightning Round Myths

08:43 – What is Alcoholics Anonymous actually?

18:11 – How to know when your drinking is a problem

22:04 – What actually happens at your first AA meeting?

29:22 – What do the 12 Steps actually ask you to do?

37:28 – AA criticisms: Abstinence and rigidity

39:48 – Is Alcoholics Anonymous too religious?

40:51 – Why do people think AA is a cult?

43:01 – Powerlessness and learned helplessness

47:01 – Dry drunks and legitimate alternatives to AA

How is Dissociative Identity Disorder actually diagnosed and treated? Psychiatrist Dr. Colin Ross, M.D., reveals the truth about living with and healing from DID.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

In Part 2 of this deep dive, host Terry McGuire sits down with world-renowned psychiatrist, trauma expert, and author Dr. Colin Ross, M.D., founder of The Ross Institute. Together, they clear up pervasive myths surrounding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), exploring how clinicians properly screen for dissociation, missing time, and internal voices. Dr. Ross breaks down the critical differences between DID vs schizophrenia, explaining why internal voices in trauma survivors differ from psychotic hallucinations.

The conversation explores the three stages of trauma-informed treatment, clarifying why full fusion or merging of alters isn't always the ultimate goal. Instead, effective therapy focuses on building internal cooperation, safety, and functional collaboration among alternate identity states. Dr. Ross shares practical guidelines for loved ones supporting someone with DID, warning against common relationship mistakes and caregiver burnout. He also highlights how to find specialized care through organizations like the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), as well as modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR.

Whether you are navigating recovery yourself, supporting a partner, or seeking to understand complex trauma, this episode provides grounded, compassionate guidance on moving from internal civil war toward long-term healing and success.

Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert insights on mental health recovery, leave your questions in the comments below, and share this video to help destigmatize complex trauma!

Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:01:14 – What Is Dissociative Identity Disorder? 00:02:12 – DID Diagnosis & Treatment Myths 00:07:04 – How Psychiatrists Screen for DID 00:10:58 – Understanding Internal Voices and Alters 00:15:19 – How to Find a DID Specialist 00:18:49 – DID vs. Schizophrenia: Key Differences 00:23:19 – Is Fusion Always the Goal of DID Therapy? 00:27:49 – How to Support a Loved One with DID 00:31:14 – Living a Successful Life with DID

Questions the Video Answers:

• How long does it typically take to get diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder?
• How do psychiatrists screen for missing time and trauma-related dissociation?
• Can online quizzes accurately diagnose Dissociative Identity Disorder?
• Is there prescription medication specifically designed to treat DID?
• What is the clinical difference between DID and schizophrenia?
• Are internal voices in DID the same as psychotic hallucinations?
• What are the three primary stages of trauma-informed therapy for DID?
• Does DID therapy require all alters to fuse into a single personality?
• How can you find a qualified therapist who specializes in Dissociative Identity Disorder?
• What role do Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR play in treating complex trauma?
• How can family members support a partner or friend with DID without burning out?
• What common mistakes should people avoid when supporting someone with DID?
• Can a person with Dissociative Identity Disorder live a high-functioning, successful life?

#DissociativeIdentityDisorder #DID #TraumaRecovery

Is dissociative identity disorder wildly misunderstood? Discover how childhood trauma splits the mind into distinct alters as leading psychiatrist Dr. Colin Ross joins host Terry McGuire to separate medical facts from pop culture myths on RECOVERable.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

In Part 1 of this deep dive, world-renowned psychiatrist, author, and DID specialist Dr. Colin Ross—who served on the DSM-IV task force committee—unpacks the reality of Dissociative Identity Disorder (formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder). From explaining how severe, inescapable childhood abuse triggers the brain's natural survival mechanisms to distinguishing genuine DID symptoms from viral social media trends, Dr. Ross delivers essential insights for trauma survivors, families, and clinicians.

Together, host Terry McGuire and Dr. Ross explore how alter personalities function, what switching feels like internally, and why dissociation is a brilliant coping mechanism rather than a defect. You will discover how DID differs from schizophrenia and complex PTSD (C-PTSD), why alters can have unique ages or mannerisms, and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) overlaps with dissociative identity disorder therapy.

Whether you are questioning a diagnosis or seeking to support someone with DID, this conversation offers clarity, empathy, and hope.

Subscribe to RECOVERable, turn on notifications so you don't miss Part 2 on treatment and integration, and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
02:08 – Myth or Fact: Quick Answers on DID
07:38 – What Is Dissociative Identity Disorder?
12:18 – Childhood Trauma as a Survival Skill
15:38 – Multiple Personality Misconceptions
21:21 – Real DID vs. Social Media Trends
23:50 – What Switching Alters Feels Like
29:22 – DID vs. Internal Family Systems (IFS)
31:54 – Misdiagnosis: DID vs. Schizophrenia
44:44 – The Path to Healing & Therapy

Questions the Video Answers:

What is the difference between DID and Multiple Personality Disorder?

How does childhood trauma cause Dissociative Identity Disorder?

Is Dissociative Identity Disorder the same thing as Schizophrenia?

How common is Dissociative Identity Disorder in the general population?

Can adults suddenly develop DID without childhood trauma?

Are people with Dissociative Identity Disorder violent or dangerous?

Is there a prescription medication that can cure DID?

What does switching between alters feel like?

Can alters have different ages, genders, or mannerisms?

How can you distinguish real DID from someone faking it on social media?

How does DID differ from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy?

What is the difference between complex PTSD and Dissociative Identity Disorder?

Must all alters integrate into one personality for a person with DID to heal?

Why do siblings exposed to the same traumatic environment develop different responses?

#DissociativeIdentityDisorder #DID #TraumaRecovery

Is your obsession with "clean" eating secretly damaging your health? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire continues the conversation with eating disorder expert Dr. Brad Smith (Medical Director at The Emily Program) to unpack Orthorexia Nervosa—an eating disorder centered on the obsessive pursuit of "pure" and healthy foods.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

While clean eating is often praised in wellness culture and on social media, Dr. Brad Smith exposes how extreme food restrictions, cutting out entire food groups, and hyper-fixating on food labels can quickly turn dangerous. Unlike Anorexia Nervosa, which is primarily driven by weight and body image, Orthorexia is driven by a mission-based obsession with dietary purity. Left unchecked, this rigid mindset can sabotage social relationships, trigger intense guilt over "slip-ups," and lead to severe malnutrition.

Dr. Smith explains how Orthorexia overlaps with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety, why it is currently diagnosed under OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders) in the DSM-5, and how self-assessments like the Bratman Orthorexia Test are used. He also breaks down what multidisciplinary treatment looks like—including psychotherapy, nutritional rehabilitation with a registered dietitian, and safely managing the re-feeding process.

If you or a loved one are struggling with obsessive clean eating or rigid food rules, watch to learn how to spot the warning signs and access professional support. Subscribe for more expert mental health discussions!

Chapters: 00:00 – What Is Orthorexia Nervosa?

01:09 – Myth vs. Fact: Clean Eating & Food Rules

05:59 – When Does Healthy Eating Become Unhealthy?

07:08 – Why Isn't Orthorexia More Widely Known?

13:03 – Orthorexia vs. Anorexia: Key Differences

17:12 – Is Orthorexia Connected to OCD & Anxiety?

18:39 – Warning Signs & Red Flags of Orthorexia

22:32 – Can You Have Orthorexia Without Weight Loss Goals?

33:05 – How Dangerous Is Restrictive Clean Eating?

34:36 – Multidisciplinary Treatment & Re-Feeding

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is orthorexia nervosa and how is it defined?
• What is the difference between orthorexia and anorexia nervosa?
• Can you have orthorexia without wanting to lose weight?
• Is obsessive clean eating considered an eating disorder?
• Why isn't orthorexia currently listed as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5?
• What are the main warning signs and behavioral red flags of orthorexia?
• Is orthorexia linked to OCD and anxiety disorders?
• How does social media wellness culture contribute to orthorexia?
• Can severe orthorexia restriction lead to life-threatening malnutrition?
• What is the Bratman Orthorexia Test?
• What is re-feeding syndrome in eating disorder recovery?
• What does multidisciplinary treatment for orthorexia involve?
• Does health insurance cover orthorexia treatment under OSFED?

#Orthorexia #EatingDisorderRecovery #MentalHealth

Is extreme picky eating actually a life-threatening eating disorder? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Brad Smith to break down Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is far more than selective eating—it is a complex, recognized mental health condition that goes well beyond simple food preferences. Unlike anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, ARFID is not driven by body image, weight loss, or body size concerns. Instead, it stems from severe sensory sensitivities to food textures and smells, aversive trauma responses following a traumatic choking or vomiting episode, or a total lack of appetite and interest in eating.

In this comprehensive guide, Dr. Brad Smith, an expert psychiatrist and medical leader at The Emily Program, clears up pervasive myths surrounding restrictive eating disorders. He explores the medical consequences of malnutrition, including severe cardiac arrhythmia, digestive slowdown, and brain fog, as well as the deep emotional and social isolation that living with food anxiety creates. We also examine the strong co-occurrence between ARFID, neurodivergence, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and ADHD.

Learn how medical professionals diagnose ARFID, why multivitamins are not a substitute for complete food nutrition, when higher levels of care or an NG feeding tube become essential tools for medical stabilization, and how exposure therapy with response prevention (ERP) helps patients safely expand their diet. Whether you are a parent wondering if your child's picky eating has crossed the line, or an adult navigating severe food aversion, this episode provides actionable clarity and hope for full recovery. Subscribe to RECOVERable for more insights on mental health, addiction, and recovery support.

Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: ARFID Myths vs. Facts

07:33 – What Is ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)?

08:52 – What Drives ARFID: Sensory, Trauma, & Low Appetite

12:51 – Is ARFID Just Extreme Picky Eating?

16:01 – When Do People Seek Treatment for ARFID?

20:12 – Physical, Emotional, & Social Impacts of ARFID

33:46 – What Is the Link Between ARFID, Autism, & ADHD?

36:31 – How Serious Is ARFID & Can It Be Fatal?

40:48 – When Is an NG Feeding Tube Necessary?

51:26 – What Does Professional ARFID Treatment Look Like?

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)?
• What is the difference between picky eating and ARFID?
• What are the three main types or driving factors of ARFID?
• Can adults develop ARFID or does it only affect children?
• Is ARFID caused by gentle parenting or spoiling a child?
• Do you have to be underweight to be diagnosed with ARFID?
• What physical health risks and heart complications are associated with ARFID?
• What is the connection between ARFID, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and ADHD?
• Does a child having ARFID mean they are automatically autistic?
• Can ARFID be fatal if left untreated?
• How does an NG feeding tube help in severe ARFID recovery?
• Can taking multivitamins cure or treat ARFID?
• How do medical clinicians diagnose ARFID?
• What is the difference between ARFID and Anorexia Nervosa?
• What therapy methods (like ERP) are used to treat ARFID?

#ARFID #EatingDisorders #MentalHealth

Are you living in constant survival mode, hypervigilant in relationships, or wondering why safe environments feel uncomfortable? You might be living with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). In Part 2 of this deep dive on RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down again with licensed clinical therapist and trauma expert Amanda Stretcher Lewis, MA, LPC-S, to explore how chronic relational trauma shapes the developing brain and nervous system.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Unlike single-event PTSD, complex PTSD stems from repeated interpersonal trauma, emotional neglect, or attachment wounds during childhood. In this episode, Amanda Stretcher Lewis—a trauma-informed therapist, supervisor, and co-founder of Crescent Counseling Dallas—explains why complex trauma leads to deep-seated feelings of shame, self-blame, and dissociation. Amanda breaks down why CPTSD is frequently misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, BPD, or ADHD, and why it is currently omitted from the DSM-5 despite being recognized internationally in the ICD-11.

Discover how somatic therapies like Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and the Safe and Sound Protocol help process trauma stored in the body beyond traditional talk therapy. Learn actionable tools to expand your window of tolerance, navigate relationship triggers, overcome trauma bonding, and step out of survival mode into genuine post-traumatic growth. Subscribe to RECOVERable for more expert mental health guidance, leave your thoughts in the comments, and share this video with anyone healing from childhood trauma!

Chapters: 00:00 – PTSD vs. CPTSD 00:01:29 – Brain Development & Relational Trauma 00:06:13 – Childhood Validation & Internalized Shame 00:08:49 – Developmental Tasks & CPTSD Deficits 00:10:44 – Understanding Dissociation & Coping Mechanisms 00:15:29 – Relational Healing & Trauma Therapy 00:23:12 – Why Survivors Minimize Childhood Trauma 00:31:36 – Trauma Bonding & CPTSD Triggers 00:37:01 – Misdiagnosis & Why CPTSD Isn't in the DSM-5 00:45:10 – Somatic Therapies & Signs of Recovery

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is the difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?
• How does childhood relational trauma affect brain development?
• Why do trauma survivors internalize shame and self-blame?
• What developmental milestones are missed due to childhood CPTSD?
• What is dissociation and how does it manifest in daily life?
• How does dissociation impact performance in high-stress jobs?
• How can you support a romantic partner living with CPTSD?
• What is trauma bonding and how does it affect relationships?
• What are common relational triggers for people with CPTSD?
• Why is CPTSD often misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, or BPD?
• Why is Complex PTSD included in the ICD-11 but missing from the DSM-5?
• Can Complex PTSD be completely cured or healed?
• What are the best somatic therapies for complex trauma recovery?
• How do modalities like Brainspotting and EMDR help process trauma?
• What are the early signs that CPTSD healing is taking root?

#CPTSD #ComplexPTSD #TraumaRecovery

Are you constantly living in survival mode without knowing why? You might be experiencing Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD).

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

In part one of this two-part series on RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with licensed clinical therapist and trauma expert Amanda Stretcher Lewis to deeply explore Complex PTSD (CPTSD). Unlike single-event PTSD, CPTSD often stems from chronic, repeated exposure to relational trauma, emotional neglect, or attachment injuries during critical stages of brain development.

In this episode, Amanda breaks down why so many individuals spend years feeling broken, hypervigilant, or trapped in relentless people-pleasing without realizing their nervous system is responding to past wounds. We examine the core differences between PTSD and CPTSD, discuss why CPTSD is so frequently misdiagnosed as treatment-resistant depression or anxiety, and uncover how high-functioning individuals mask severe burnout. Amanda also sheds light on the protective nature of survival strategies, the impact of parentification, and why setting healthy boundaries can feel so intimidating after trauma.

If you have ever felt like safe relationships are uncomfortable or that life is simply harder for you than others, this conversation offers essential clarity, validation, and actionable insight to help you move from self-blame to self-compassion.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss Part 2, and share this video with anyone who needs help understanding trauma.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

00:01:28 – Myth vs. Fact: CPTSD

00:06:41 – What Is Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?

00:08:45 – PTSD vs. CPTSD: Key Differences

00:15:39 – What Causes CPTSD & Relational Trauma?

00:19:43 – Signs and Symptoms of CPTSD

00:24:25 – People Pleasing and Setting Boundaries

00:28:18 – Is CPTSD Misdiagnosed as Depression?

00:32:25 – CPTSD in High-Functioning Individuals

00:46:15 – Adaptive Strategies & Survival Responses

Questions the Video Answers:

• What is the difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?
• What causes Complex PTSD in adults and children?
• Can emotional neglect cause CPTSD without physical abuse?
• What are the most common signs and symptoms of CPTSD?
• Why do safe relationships feel threatening or uncomfortable after trauma?
• Is CPTSD frequently misdiagnosed as clinical depression?
• How does CPTSD show up in high-functioning individuals?
• Can you have CPTSD if you don't remember your childhood trauma?
• What is parentification and how does it cause relational trauma?
• Why does CPTSD cause chronic hypervigilance and survival mode?
• How does childhood trauma lead to adult people-pleasing?
• Why are boundaries so hard to set for trauma survivors?
• What are adaptive survival strategies in trauma recovery?

#CPTSD #ComplexPTSD #TraumaRecovery

Can psilocybin and ibogaine truly cure depression and addiction, or are the risks being ignored?

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

In Part 2 of this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with clinical psychologist and research facilitator Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, to explore the therapeutic potential, safety profiles, and common misconceptions surrounding psilocybin and ibogaine. Dr. Chantelle Thomas, a leading psychologist and researcher who has facilitated clinical trials at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, breaks down the emerging science behind psychedelic-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder, opioid use disorder, and severe trauma.

Together, Terry McGuire and Dr. Thomas separate myth from fact regarding magic mushrooms, neurogenesis, dendritic growth, and the cardiotoxicity risks of ibogaine treatment. Dr. Thomas explains how psilocybin turns down predictive thinking and increases experiential engagement, helping individuals break free from rigid, limiting thought patterns. They also examine the critical distinction between recreational mushroom use at music festivals and structured clinical treatment protocols.

Additionally, Dr. Thomas reveals why psychedelic integration and proper therapeutic preparation are vital, explaining how psychedelics can act as a powerful "gateway drug for therapy" rather than a standalone miracle cure. Whether you are curious about state-level legalization in Oregon, Colorado, and New Mexico, upcoming FDA approval timelines, or how non-ordinary states of consciousness facilitate personal transformation, this episode offers an essential, grounded perspective on the future of behavioral health and recovery. Subscribe for more deep dives into evidence-based mental health treatment!

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Psilocybin & Ibogaine
00:01:35 – Psychedelic Myths vs. Facts
00:06:35 – Neurogenesis & Brain Connectivity
00:10:00 – Psilocybin Clinical Trials & Research
00:18:00 – What Happens in Psilocybin Therapy?
00:23:15 – Why Psychedelic Integration Matters
00:33:15 – Risks, Benefits, & FDA Approval Timelines
00:48:50 – Ibogaine for Opioid Addiction
00:55:00 – Safety & Caution in Ibogaine Treatment
00:59:30 – Final Advice on Psychedelic Healing

Questions the Video Answers:

Is psilocybin therapy effective for major depressive disorder?

How does ibogaine treat opioid addiction and withdrawal?

Can you get permanently trapped in a bad psilocybin trip?

What is the difference between recreational magic mushrooms and psilocybin therapy?

Does psilocybin stimulate neurogenesis and create new neural pathways?

What are the cardiotoxicity and heart risks associated with ibogaine?

How close is psilocybin to receiving FDA approval?

What is psychedelic integration and why is it necessary?

Can a single dose of psilocybin or ibogaine cure addiction?

Where is psilocybin therapy legally available in the United States?

How does psilocybin alter brain network communication?

What happens during an ibogaine life review experience?

How should you prepare for psychedelic-assisted therapy?

Why is traditional psychotherapy crucial before and after psychedelic treatment?

#Psilocybin #PsychedelicTherapy #Ibogaine

Can ketamine and MDMA truly transform trauma and severe depression? Clinical psychologist Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, joins Terry McGuire to reveal the clinical truth behind psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with research facilitator Dr. Chantelle Thomas, PhD, for part one of a deep dive into the clinical landscapes of ketamine therapy and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Together, they dispel common myths surrounding recreational vs. therapeutic drug use, explaining how "set and setting" fundamentally alter patient outcomes.

Dr. Thomas explains how ketamine acts on glutamate pathways and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to offer rapid antidepressant relief in hours rather than weeks. You'll learn the crucial differences between standalone IV ketamine infusion clinics and comprehensive ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), as well as how integration therapy anchors altered states of consciousness into lasting recovery.

The conversation shifts to MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. Dr. Thomas shares insights from FDA clinical trials, highlighting how MDMA expands a patient's capacity to process deep trauma without being overwhelmed. They discuss cardiac risks, candidate screening, abuse potential, and why psychedelic therapy requires skilled facilitation.

Whether you are exploring treatment-resistant depression, trauma recovery, or alternative mental health treatments, subscribe to RECOVERable for expert insights and stay tuned for part two on psilocybin and ibogaine!

Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction & Psychedelic Myths 01:20 – What Is Set and Setting? 05:58 – Ketamine vs Antidepressants for Depression 08:00 – Is Ketamine FDA Approved? 14:49 – What Is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy? 22:03 – Ketamine for Addiction & Trauma 27:00 – What Ketamine Therapy Feels Like 36:08 – MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD 42:34 – MDMA vs Traditional Trauma Therapy 54:11 – Critical Takeaways Before Trying Psychedelic Therapy

Are you secretly struggling with a sports betting addiction or trying to survive financial ruin after chasing losses online? Learn how to break free. In this episode of the RECOVERable Podcast, host Terry McGuire continues an impactful conversation with expert psychologist Dr. Michael Zhang to explore the psychology of behavioral addiction. Together, they pull back the curtain on the industry's hidden traps, detailing the process of self-exclusion and explaining how modern gambling apps add layers of friction—or fail to enforce bans when you are at your most vulnerable.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Dr. Michael Zhang, a leading psychologist and the innovative founder of the digital platform Incremental, breaks down why gambling disorder is uniquely recognized in the DSM-5 as the only official behavioral addiction. He addresses the intense psychological turmoil that comes with problem gambling, offering actionable advice on how to handle the immediate panic of massive financial loss and the daunting challenge of telling a partner or parents about severe gambling debt. Terry and Dr. Zhang take a hard look at the emerging landscape of sports betting apps and prediction markets, debunking the dangerous myth that betting on sports is purely a game of skill rather than high-risk gambling.

They also expose the conflicts of interest behind industry-funded 'responsible gambling' programs, urging viewers to follow the money and seek independent recovery support instead. By explaining how variable ratio schedules and intermittent reinforcement keep your brain hooked on fake wins, Dr. Zhang delivers a powerful blueprint for shifting from active addiction into lasting freedom. If you are ready to stop active betting, escape the exhausting double life, and discover what true recovery looks like after hitting rock bottom, this conversation is for you. Watch the full episode to learn how to break the spell, rebuild broken relationships, and build a beautiful, authentic life. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with someone who needs to hear it today.

Chapters: 00:00 – [Intro] 00:48 – How Self-Exclusion Works 03:09 – Using Self-Exclusion on Gambling Apps 06:29 – The Significance of Gambling in the DSM-5 08:20 – Handling the Panic of Massive Financial Loss 10:29 – How to Tell Your Family About Gambling Debt 15:14 – Is Sports Betting Gambling or Skill? 22:27 – How Gambling Hotlines Help 24:48 – Addressing Gambling as a Public Health Issue 31:02 – The Overlap with Substance Abuse and True Recovery

Questions the Video Answers:

• How do you stop gambling when you can't control it?
• What is self-exclusion in gambling and does it work?
• Can you ban yourself from online sports betting apps?
• Why is gambling addiction classified as a behavioral disorder in the DSM-5?
• How do I handle the immediate panic after losing all my money gambling?
• What is the best way to tell your partner you lost rent money gambling?
• Is sports betting considered real gambling or a game of skill?
• Why do I keep losing money on sports betting apps?
• How does calling a gambling addiction hotline help you?
• Is problem gambling a recognized public health issue?
• Why is the gambling industry funding responsible gambling programs?
• What is the relationship between alcohol abuse and gambling addiction?
• Can overcoming a gambling problem cure depression and anxiety?
• What does true recovery from a gambling addiction actually look like?
• How do you break the cycle of chasing losses in gambling

#GamblingAddiction #SportsBetting #AddictionRecovery

Are you or someone you love secretly struggling with a gambling problem? Discover how modern apps trap your mind and how to break the cycle. In this episode of the Recoverable Podcast, host Terry McGuire sits down with expert psychologist Dr. Michael Zhang to uncover the hidden psychology of gambling addiction. They explore why it is so difficult to recognize and why individuals get caught in a dangerous loop of chasing losses.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Dr. Michael Zhang, a leading psychologist and founder of the innovative digital recovery support platform Income, breaks down the progression of problem gambling from innocent recreational play to a severe diagnosable disorder. Unlike substance abuse, a sports betting or online slots addiction often forces individuals to live double lives, hiding the financial and emotional damage directly inside their bank accounts. Dr. Zhang explains the neurological mechanism behind the "near-miss" effect and how anticipation triggers dopamine pathways long before an outcome is even revealed.

This deep-dive conversation shatters common myths about willpower, explains official diagnostic criteria, and highlights the terrifyingly high suicide rates associated with this hidden epidemic. If you want to understand how online sports betting apps and prediction markets are engineered to keep you hooked, this video will open your eyes. More importantly, you will learn the crucial difference between temporarily stopping the behavior and completely removing the psychological desire to gamble.

If you are ready to shift from gambling mode to recovery mode and successfully rebuild your life, watch this full episode for actionable, evidence-based insights. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with someone who needs to hear it.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro

01:54 – Defining Gambling Addiction vs. Gambling a Lot

04:10 – The Stages of Problem Gambling

08:25 – Why Awareness of the Problem Develops Slowly

12:44 – The Dopamine Psychology of a Gambler's Brain

18:31 – How Modern Technology and Online Apps Changed Gambling

24:50 – The Psychology of Living a Double Life

30:15 – Myth vs. Fact: Debunking Common Gambling Misconceptions

38:57 – Official Diagnostic Criteria for Gambling Disorder

49:27 – How to Actually Stop Gambling and Rebuild Your Life

Questions the Video Answers:

• How do you define a gambling addiction vs gambling a lot?
• What are the psychological stages of problem gambling?
• Why do people with gambling addictions chase losses?
• How does dopamine affect a gambler's brain during anticipation?
• Why is a gambling addiction harder to spot than drug or alcohol abuse?
• How do modern online betting apps use psychological tricks to keep you hooked?
• What is the connection between gambling addiction and high suicide rates?
• What are the official diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder?
• Why do gamblers live double lives and hide financial losses?
• How do you stop gambling when you have lost everything?
• Does paying off someone's gambling debt actually help their recovery?
• How does the brain react to a "near miss" in gambling?
• What is the difference between taking yourself out of gambling and taking gambling out of you?
• What treatment options are effective for long-term gambling recovery?
• How can you shift from gambling mode to recovery mode to rebuild your life?

#GamblingAddiction #ProblemGambling #HowToStopGambling

Can a weight-loss medication actually cure your deepest cravings? Discover how GLP-1 drugs are revolutionizing the landscape of addiction recovery.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

In this episode of Recoverable, host Terry McGuire sits down with Dr. Steven Klein, an expert medical professional specializing in addiction medicine who also brings his own powerful lived experience of nine years in long-term recovery. Together, they explore the fascinating science of drug repurposing—shifting medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide (widely known under brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound) from type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management over to the frontlines of substance use disorder treatment. Dr. Klein breaks down how these powerful gut-brain peptides quiet persistent "food noise" and "drug noise" by directly targeting the mesolimbic dopamine system, which controls the brain’s fundamental reward circuitry.

Whether discussing alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, nicotine dependence, or behavioral addictions like compulsive gambling, this deep-dive addresses the critical neurobiology behind how GLP-1 for addiction functions as a substance-agnostic tool. You’ll learn about recent groundbreaking clinical data showing a 50% drop in substance-related mortality, the clinical reality of off-label prescribing, common GI side effects, and what happens to internal cravings once you stop taking the medication. Dr. Klein shares his profound "record needle" analogy, showing how these treatments temporarily quiet internal noise so individuals can learn a completely new behavioral song. If you or a loved one are exploring cutting-edge medical tools to support sustainable recovery, reduce relapse, and reclaim your agency, this episode provides essential context, breaking down the artificial boundaries between physical metabolic health and mental health.

Watch the full conversation to unlock the future of highly personalized behavioral care. Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share your thoughts or personal experiences in the comments section below!

Chapters: 00:00:00 – Intro

00:01:14 – How GLP-1s Transformed My Relationship with Food

00:06:27 – How Weight Loss Drugs Ended Up on the Addiction Radar

00:09:05 – How GLP-1s Treat the Core Circuitry of Addiction

00:11:14 – What Are the Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications?

00:15:18 – How Do GLP-1 Drugs Actually Work for Addiction?

00:18:00 – Does Brain Rewiring Continue After Stopping GLP-1s?

00:23:49 – Are GLP-1s FDA-Approved for Addiction Treatment?

00:26:53 – Do GLP-1s Cause Anhedonia or Suicidal Thoughts?

00:42:31 – Can You Take GLP-1s for Addiction Without Losing Weight?

Questions the Video Answers:

• How do GLP-1 drugs work for addiction treatment?
• Can Ozempic or Wegovy help reduce alcohol cravings?
• What is the success rate of GLP-1 medications for substance use disorders?
• How do diabetes and weight-loss drugs quiet food noise in the brain?
• Are GLP-1 medications FDA-approved to treat alcohol or opioid addiction?
• What are the common side effects of using GLP-1s for addiction recovery?
• Do cravings return after you stop taking semaglutide or tirzepatide?
• Can you take GLP-1 medications for addiction if you don't want to lose weight?
• How do GLP-1 agonists impact the brain's dopamine reward system?
• Is it safe to combine GLP-1s with other addiction medications like buprenorphine?
• Will health insurance cover Ozempic or Zepbound if prescribed off-label for addiction?
• Can GLP-1 medications help treat behavioral addictions like gambling or sex addiction?
• What did the British Medical Journal study find regarding GLP-1s and substance mortality?
• Does taking weight-loss drugs cause anhedonia or a general loss of joy?
• How long will it take for the FDA to approve GLP-1s for addiction?

#GLP1ForAddiction #OzempicForAddiction #AddictionRecovery

Is willpower alone enough to beat opioid addiction, or are we fighting a medical disease with the wrong tools? In this episode of the Recoverable podcast, we shift the paradigm from shame to evidence-based science.

Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/

Host Terry McGuire sits down with Dr. Steven Klein, MD, PhD, a triple-boarded physician in pediatrics, genetics, and addiction medicine who serves as full-time faculty at Caron Treatment Centers. Dr. Klein brings a deeply authentic perspective to the table as a professional in long-term recovery himself, diving into the raw mechanics of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). We break down the crucial differences between traditional Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and OUD-specific options like Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone), oral naltrexone, and the game-changing shift toward monthly long-acting injectables.

Dr. Klein directly confronts the intense societal stigma and the ongoing debate within 12-step recovery groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) over whether using addiction medication means you are truly "sober". He shares the striking clinical data regarding the low number needed to treat (NNT) for buprenorphine compared to other lifelines in modern medicine. Beyond the blocking of withdrawal symptoms and cravings, we uncover the profound psychological "why" behind substance abuse—looking closely at trauma, identity, and the heavy sense of disconnection that fuels severe opioid use disorder. If you or a loved one are trying to navigate rehab options, outpatient detox programs, or sober living rules, this conversation offers data-backed hope. Subscribe for Part 2 next week, and leave a comment below with your thoughts!

Chapters:
00:00 – Changing the Paradigm of Addiction Recovery
01:11 – Dr. Stephen Klein’s Personal Recovery Journey
03:36 – What is the Difference Between MAT and MOUD?
05:12 – The Opioid Class: From Prescription Pills to Kratom
07:05 – Is Abstinence Always the Goal of MOUD Treatment?
09:28 – How Do We Measure Success in Addiction Recovery?
11:34 – How Suboxone and Naltrexone Block Cravings
14:56 – Navigating Stigma: "Replacing One Drug with Another"
21:16 – How Monthly Injectables Change Compliance and Self-Stigma
23:55 – The True Medical Risks of Untreated Opioid Withdrawal

Questions the Video Answers:

What is the difference between MAT and MOUD in addiction treatment?

How does Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) work for opioid addiction?

Can you use naltrexone for both opioid and alcohol use disorder?

Why do 12-step programs like AA and NA stigmatize Suboxone users?

How do monthly injectable addiction medications like Vivitrol reduce self-stigma?

What is the Sinclair Method for treating alcohol use disorder?

Is a person on MOUD considered truly sober and in recovery?

What are the side effects of buprenorphine vs untreated opioid withdrawal?

Does health insurance or Medicaid cover long-acting injectable opioid treatments?

Why is kratom considered an emerging and dangerous opioid alkaloid?

How do trauma and deep emotional disconnection cause substance abuse?

How can family members support a loved one starting buprenorphine?

#OpioidAddiction #SuboxoneRecovery #AddictionMedicine

What is brainspotting therapy and how does it actually work? Dr. Jenny Hughes, licensed clinical psychologist and trauma expert, explains this revolutionary approach to healing trauma — including how it differs from EMDR, why where you look affects how you feel, and what happens during a real brainspotting session.

In this interview, Dr. Hughes breaks down the science behind brainspotting: how it accesses the subcortical parts of your brain where trauma is stored, why you don't need to talk through your trauma for it to work, and the accidental discovery by David Grand that changed trauma therapy forever.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 — Intro: What Is Brainspotting?
1:33 — Myth or Fact Lightning Round
5:11 — The Accidental Discovery (David Grand & the Skater)
8:15 — EMDR vs. Brainspotting: Quick Overview
8:49 — How Brainspotting Actually Works
10:08 — The "Inside Window" & Finding Your Brain Spot
10:52 — Focused Mindfulness & the Subcortical Brain
12:26 — The Pointer, Variations & Therapist Training
13:33 — Why Therapists Experience Brainspotting First
15:21 — EMDR vs. Brainspotting: The Key Differences
16:50 — What Changes After Brainspotting Therapy
18:15 — Which Therapy Is Right for You?

🔗 ABOUT DR. JENNY HUGHES
Dr. Jenny Hughes is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and evidence-based therapies including Brainspotting and EMDR.

🎙️ ABOUT RECOVERABLE
RECOVERable answers the internet's most-asked questions about mental health, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction recovery — through expert interviews you can actually understand.

Find the right treatment for you at Recovery.com
https://www.recovery.com