Making An Addict

In the season one finale of Making An Addict, D.J. talks with colleague Kristina Cook about her life in recovery and the challenges she faced growing up as a young person looking for validation, support, and love - everything she should have received freely - and how she eventually discovered her inner worth and beauty. As Kris says, "It's about attachment, for reals!" Kristina is a leading therapist in Seattle, WA. Learn more at http://www.fremonthealingarts.com/practitioners.html. Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/

In this week's episode, DJ talks his dear friend, Christina about what it was like to lose her father at a young age, and the neglect she suffered within her family of origin. Christina shares what it's like to be a parent while in recovery; dating in recovery as a healthier person; and not trying to control everything in her life. Christina also gives us a glimpse of what it's like to be in recovery from sex/love addiction.    Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with Seattle therapist Danielle DeBray about emotional intimacy and addiction. In the interview, Danielle references the classic psychological experiment "Rat Park" from 1978, which demonstrated how connectivity beats addiction and she calls for our own "Chimp Park" to beat the various addictions us humans have to other people, places, and things.  Danielle is an expert on emotional attachement, atunement, addiction, eating disorders, and a phenomenal group therapist. She has been in the field of counseling for over 23 years. To learn more about Danielle visit her website. Here is a YouTube video on Rat park.     Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with Allie Haydon, a licensed chemical dependency counselor, licensed marriage and family therapy associate, who works for Palmer Drug Abuse Program(PDAP) in Houston, Texas. Allie shares her story of alcohol and drug abuse recovery and how her experiences led her to helping youth as young as 12 years old in recovery. Allie says some people considered her a "low bottom/high functioning alcholic," but I think she is a gem for the hard work she does for the youth.  After our interview, Allie and the PDAP family were in one of the worst hurricanes to hit the U.S. Allie reports that everyone is doing well after Hurricane Harvey struck Houston, but donations are appreciated to help youth stay in recovery. You can donate to PDAP directly at http://pdaphouston.org/support/ . Thank you for considering.  Learn more about Allie Haydon on her website. Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addic

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with his friend and colleague Christian (Christy) M. Alexander, trauma therapist, about her recovery journey from alcohol and drugs and the impact her addiction has had on her health. Christy opens up about her struggles staying sober while actively working with clients in various mental health settings. With the help of her network, Christy has been able to embrace sobriety and accept the gifts of her own imperfections as gifts to those she treats in her private practice in Federal Way, WA. Learn more about Christy Alexander.  Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/

In this week's episode, DJ talks with colleague Joe Class about his experience working with addicts in recovery, and his own journey of recovery. Joe's belief is every one has an addiction to something. He explains that he is a soul healer - empowering clients to get in touch with who they really are and strengthening their own sense of self. We have to heal the hurt beneath addictions.  To lean more about Joe Class, visit his website Flowing Water Healing and read his blog post Everyone's An Addict.  Joe is also on Facebook!   Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/

In this interview, D.J. interviews his friend in recovery, Christopher D., a recovering substance abuser. Chris tells D.J. about his long history of substance use dating back to the 80s; he once surrounded himself with people who were all about living the fun life and now Chris is back on track and focused on his recovery and education!    Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler

In this interview, D.J. interviews colleague, Troy L Love, author of Finding Peace: A Workbook on Healing from Loss, Neglect, Rejection, Abandonment, Betryal and Abuse. Troy talks about the attachment theory of addiction and how lack of attachment leaves people vulnerable to addiction. DJ and Troy, both sex addicts in recovery, talk about how sharing their secrets has helped them heal and provided them the strength to help others.    Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler

In today's episode of Making An Addict, D.J. talks with Robert Cox - therapist and host of Mindful Recovery podcast - about filling our broken places with addictive substances to numb the painful experiences we encounter in life. Robert's heart stopped due to his previous drug use and abuse and he says "It scared me straight." Robert talks about the benefit of being mindful and practicing mindfulness. Robert's podcast, Mindful Recovery provides mindfulness resources to trauma survivors and those in addiction recovery. Learn more about Robert and the services his offers at www.liferecoveryconsulting.com   Making An Addict is hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist, and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and the host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Ph

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with successful entrepenuer Mitch Russo about his polysubstance use and abuse, growing up in New York City in the 1970s. Hard drugs led to intensive inpatient drug rehabilitation which saved Mitch's life. Mitch is the author of "This Invisible Organization" which is the CEO's guide to transitioning a traditional brick and mortar company into a fully virtual organization; and, he is a landscape and travel photographer, recognized for his work by the Sierra Club and JETGALA Magazine. Learn more about Mitch and the successful life and career he has had after getting sober!  www.MitchRussoTravels.com. Mitch’s consultant/business web site is at www.MitchRusso.com. Mitch’s Book site: www.InvisibleOrganization.com Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licen

In this week's episode, D.J. has an intimate conversation with his partner, Alan. DJ and Alan talk openly about their individual family addiction history; Alan's older brother's addiction to drugs and subsequent death; and how D.J.'s addiction and recovery affects their relationship.    Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with fellow podcaster and friend in recovery, Arlina of the ODAAT(One Day at a Time) Chat podcast. Arlina Allen speaks openly about her 23 years of sobriety, as well as her years of active addiction to drugs, alcohol, and men. Arlina goes on to share about early childhood abuse; using drugs and alcohol to numb painful emotions; and what it was like living in insanity.  For Arlina, it all came down to a spiritual solution, regardless of the various addictions plaguing her life. She had to start at Step One and fight hard to maintain her sobriety one day at a time.  Arlina and D.J. also talk recovery resources including self-care tips, having chickens in the backyard and using nail art to find solace when thing are feeling overwhelming. Here are some links to resources Arlina shared about in the episode:HeadSpace app for mediation - https://www.headspace.com/Sam Harris - https://www.samharris.org/aboutTara Brach - https://www.tarabrach.com/guided-meditations/Backyard Chicken -

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with Diana about what it was like growing up in a house with five other siblings; addiction being present in her life from an early age; and, what happened when she began to use alcohol and food to numb all the difficult emotions, that she never knew she could talk about. Diana also shares about her work as a suicide prevention advocate, which took her to the White House to speak on the national level. Listen Now! Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. www.djburr.com Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler The Stars Look Different (Ziggy Stardust Mix) by spinningmerkaba (c) copyright 2016 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/fil

In this week's episode, DJ talks with his best friend, Randal, whom he met in the 12-step rooms. Randal's story is unique. He was suffering with depression, substance dependence and signed himself into rehab only to learn he wasn't an "addict" in the traditional sense. Listen as Randal talks about how ancient Eastern philosophy, religion, and psychology helped him understand his "unhealthy attachment" to people, places, and things. Is he really an addict in disguise? Listen NOW! Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler Drops of H2O ( The Filtered Water Treatment ) by J.Lang (c) copyright 2012 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.c

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with Dr. Kay Brumbaugh, a licensed psychologist practicing in Humble, Texas. Dr. Brumbaugh shares her experience of working with adult clients suffering from various addictions. You will learn today that it's a complicated process to help clients put down all their armor and begin the recovery process. For those afflicted by the disease of addiction, the addiction has been a source of comfort and support - but it can kill them. Hear D.J. and Dr. Brumbaugh talk in depth about the work that is required for the addict who is still suffering. Learn more about Dr. Brumbaugh at her website.  Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler Drops of H2O

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with fellow therapist, Lisa Duez, of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Lisa works with children and adults in her private practice. She works primarily with women in recovery. D.J. and Lisa talk about the consequences of addiction on families; clients who present due to legal system involvement; and how to educate teens about substance use and abuse. As a therapist, we sometimes just want to tell people to "Stop," but we can't force people to stop addictive behaviors. Listen as Lisa and D.J. talk about what it means for them to be providers and holding space for clients who have to hit bottom before recovery can begin. "If nothing changes, nothing changes." - Courtney C. Stevens Contact: Lisa - Instagram; Facebook; Website Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed und

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with his colleague, Dak Wasson of MacPherson Pacific Counseling in Seattle, WA. Dak is a chemical dependency professional and sex addiction therapist. Dak talks candidly about being a "mess" in active addiction from drugs, alcohol, and other behaviors. He got so drunk he agreed to inpatient treatment, which saved his life and helped him get to the place in his life where he is now eleven years sober and helping others walk the path of recovery.  Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler www.djburr.com

In this week's episode, D.J. talks with his good friend and colleague, Anne. Anne is a chemical dependency professional and licensed mental health counselor. Anne shares her deeply personal account of growing up in a dysfunctional family system and finding hard drugs to numb the deep emotional pain. Anne describes what it was like to live a "double life" - a star athlete and a drug abuser - while clinging on for dear life.  Anne's story is moving and inspiring. Hear her experience, strength, and hope today.   Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler www.djburr.com

In this third episode of Making an Addict, D.J. talks with Forest Benedict, sexual addiction therapist and author of Life After Lust: Stories and Strategies for Sex & Pornography Addiction Recovery. Forest highlights his own recovery journey of surviving living in a home with an alcoholic father and early exposure to pornography. Forest now helps other men fighting the disease of sexual addiction. You can learn more about Forest at www.forestbenedict.com  Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler www.djburr.com

In this episode, D.J. talks with Becca about her experience as an addict in recovery. She shares openly about her struggles with food, compulsive spending and debting. Becca relates her addictive behaviors to early childhood trauma including molestation and her father dying.  Hosted by D.J. Burr, psychotherapist and author of I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict and host of the podcast Journey On: Men Healing from Sexual Abuse & Assault. Music Like Music (cdk Mix) by cdk (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/cdk/48915 Ft: Phasenwandler www.djburr.com