When addiction or a mental health crisis hits your family, the advice is loud but rarely clear. We sit down with Dr. Erin McNamee—clinician, former treatment center director, and researcher on families in addiction—to unpack what actually helps loved ones move from panic and shame to informed, sustainable action. Erin shares how the Family Recovery Collective came to life as an unbiased, low-cost hub where families learn at their own pace, connect with others, and access practical tools without being funneled into a single program or referral stream.

We dig into the science and the system. You’ll hear why behavioral couples therapy has decades of evidence yet remains underused, how HIPAA and insurance hurdles sideline family work, and why the “28 days and fixed” myth sets everyone up for disappointment. Erin reframes codependence through the lens of pro-dependence—honoring care as a loving instinct—and offers a realistic approach to boundaries: start with the smallest one you can hold. We explore the neuroscience of early recovery, the impact of trauma and genetics, and the often-missed world of process addictions like gambling, porn, and food.

Most importantly, we center the people who carry the invisible load. From evaluating treatment options to understanding roles across therapists, psychiatrists, interventionists, and sober companions, this conversation gives families the language, structure, and confidence to navigate complexity. The Collective’s interviews with first responders, veterans, and partners provide lived experience that reduces stigma and brings relief: you’re not alone, and there are many valid paths to healing.

If this resonated, share the episode with someone who needs a steadier map, hit follow to stay connected, and leave a review with one takeaway you’re bringing into your next conversation at home. Your story may be the bridge someone else needs.

Guest: Dr. Erin McNamee

Topic: Addiction and Recovery

Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes today!!

Your Host: Julia Manfre of Self-Care Solutions, LLC | Follow Self-Care Solutions on Facebook

Educating Women on the Tools, Skills, and Secrets of Self-Care...

Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes today!!

Your Host: Julia Manfre of Self-Care Solutions, LLC | Follow Self-Care Solutions on Facebook

Educating Women on the Tools, Skills, and Secrets of Self-Care...