One of the biggest barriers for those who are contemplating recovery is being unable to picture a life without drinking or using substances. This article aims to provide counselors with valuable insights and strategies to assist individuals in overcoming addiction and achieving wellness. By addressing the barriers to recovery, understanding the impact of addiction on the brain and overall well-being, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced and comprehensive wellness plan, counselors can effectively support their clients on their journey to recovery.
Mark Attanasi has over 23 years’ experience in the non-profit field and holds a Master Business Administration Degree, with emphasis on general management. After completing a 12-month addiction treatment program he decided to help young adolescents with their addictions and entered the field of behavioral health in the year 2000. He currently has 25 years in recovery. Throughout his 23 plus years Mark was able to work at every level of care from Medical Detox, Outpatient, Drug Court, and adolescent residential treatment. Though he started out as a counselor his managerial experience pushed him toward leadership roles. He contributes his success of turning around struggling non-profit treatment programs to his entrepreneurial up bringing. Mark is currently the executive director of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC). IC&RC protects the public by producing “Competency Based” for
substance use disorder professionals.