Need a therapist for me, for support around child's addiction
I'm looking for a therapist for myself, mostly because I need support and guidance regarding my young adult's alcohol addiction. Kid has his own good therapist, which is great, but I need help too! I have tried Al Anon, not sure it's for me, and of course, therapy is a different thing entirely. Would love to find someone in Albany, Berkeley, Oakland, or maybe Orinda. I suppose I would consider online as well, but it's not my preference. Any great recommendations for me?
Nov 12, 2024
Parent Replies
I wholeheartedly recommend Halle Brown. She has an office in Albany and was incredibly helpful when I saw her two years ago during a challenging time with my teenager. Her support made a significant difference, and if I ever need a therapist again, I wouldn’t hesitate to return to her.
https://hallebrowntherapy.com/
902 Carmel Avenue, Albany, California 94706
Email: halle [at] hallebrowntherapy.com (halle[at]hallebrowntherapy[dot]com) Confidential voice mail: 510-216-4591
I’m so sorry to hear this, and so glad you are both getting help. I have been very impressed by the family modules for CMC (Center for motivation and change) — both as a family member of someone struggling with addiction, and as a medical provider in the field of addiction medicine.
Their approach is focused on how loved ones can most effectively support recovery, as well as how to take care of yourself. Unfortunately they are doing telehealth unless you are in San Diego or NYC, but their approach is unique in that it is truly evidence-based.
If you haven’t already, checking out Al-anon (instead of AA) can also be of help — very informative about the patterns and habits we find ourselves in when we love someone with addiction.
Good luck to you
I'm sorry you're in this situation with your son. It's a tough place to be. I've been in a similar situation with my now young adult for ~8years. I applaud you for looking for support for yourself.
If Al-Anon is not for you, carefully vet any therapist you consider working with. My experience is that most are not knowledgeable about addiction (incl. to alcohol), and the majority of those I've interviewed or worked with over the years who say they specialize in treating addiction are steeped in the 12-Step model. While the 12-Step model is helpful for many, it's not for everyone. And, there are science- and evidence-based approaches available that take a more compassionate approach. For an alternative to Al-Anon, consider looking into The Invitation to Change (ITC) and SMART Recovery for Family and Friends for support.
To find a therapist that treats addiction from a science- and evidence-based approach, look for a therapist trained in the ITC and/or CRAFT (ITC is based on CRAFT; I think of it as next-gen CRAFT). The Helping Families Help website includes a directory of ITC and CRAFT trained professionals. I'm working with a therapist at The Wise Mind Institute in Redwood City who is not trained in addiction per se, but is very helpful from a DBT and Harm Reduction perspective. The Wise Mind has an office in Berkeley. If you reach out, ask for an experienced clinician, not an intern.
I wish you and your son well on this journey.
(Disclosure: I am a certified ITC group leader—the program has been and continues to be so helpful to me that I become certified.)