The Opposite of Addiction is Connection:
Moving from Isolation to Sustainable Sobriety

 Andrew Susskind, LCSW, SEP, CGP

September 17, 2022
1:00 – 5:00 PM PST

$99 Tuition

Register

Addiction is commonplace in our culture, and so is the desire to heal. Thirty years ago, clients came to me with the sole purpose of stopping their self-destructive behaviors. Today it’s a different story: not only do they want to put an end to their cravings, but they also want to live better lives as well, with greater intimacy and more satisfying relationships. The root cause of their suffering tends to be brokenheartedness. I have found that their addictive, compulsive behaviors are really about pain, and the remedy is reliable relationships and deeper connection.

Based on the premise that we are biologically wired for connection, this interactive workshop explores the intersection of nervous system regulation, attachment theory and positive psychology. Because addiction and trauma are inseparable, we will look through the lens of trauma healing to help clients move toward long-term recovery from chemical dependence as well as process addictions.

As part of the experiential nature of this workshop, attendees will acquire useful strategies to teach clients how to:

  • Build emotional resilience
  • Develop greater meaning
  • Practice nervous system regulation

These are essential elements leading toward a more fulfilling, deeply-connected life in recovery. Case vignettes and small group discussions will illustrate the essential elements of deeper, sustainable connection.

Objectives: 

  • Describe how nervous system regulation supports sustainable sobriety.
  • Distinguish between emotional sobriety and chemical sobriety
  • Identify three Emotional Sobriety skills.
  • Name three examples of brokenheartedness.
  • Give one example of a Positive Psychology intervention to promote sustainable sobriety.

Andrew Susskind is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Brainspotting Practitioner and Certified Group Psychotherapist since 1992. He serves as faculty for the Principles of Group Psychotherapy Course and taught residents in the UCLA School of Medicine Doctoring program. Andrew has mentored associates in his private practice since 1997. His recent book, It’s Not About the Sex: Moving from Isolation to Intimacy after Sexual Addiction (Central Recovery Press, June 2019) joins his workbook, From Now On: Seven Keys to Purposeful Recovery which was released in 2014. Andrew has a private practice based in West Los Angeles specializing in trauma, addictions and codependency. His website is https://westsidetherapist.com/