In active” sobriety, as in life, I've learned that sometimes the best way to learn is to take a step back and look back at where you have come from.Most recently, I challenged myself and decided to push myself further than I thought I could go by doing the geographic cure while still in “active” recovery.And guess what?I failed, and then I failed again.Now, I could have stopped there and wasted all this energy for nothing, but I didn’t.Instead, this learning curve will eventually pay off, and within a few years of re-starting in my previous community, I was already well on my way to making a significant impact on the community I serve!Here are three lessons I learned from moving back to my home community after over 25 years of sobriety and numerous “active” recovery experiences that I hope will help you out in your endeavours.Cultural Competency and Community Engagement:<ul><li>Lesson: Counselors must develop cultural competency specific to their community, including an understanding of local customs, values, and unique challenges related to substance use.</li><li>​Rationale: Communities vary in terms of cultural diversity and social dynamics. Tailoring recovery programs to the cultural context of the community enhances their relevance and effectiveness.</li><li>​Implementation: Currently, I am seeking to engage with community leaders, organizations, and members to build trust, gather insights, and collaborate on program development.</li></ul>Holistic and Person-Centered Approach:<ul><li>Lesson: Embrace a holistic approach that considers the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of individuals seeking recovery.</li><li>​Rationale: Recovery programs should be tailored to the individual's unique needs and circumstances, addressing underlying issues and providing a comprehensive support system.</li><li>​Implementation: Offer a range of services, including counselling, medical support, vocational training, and wellness activities, to address all dimensions of recovery. Please visit our website at www.iwtscanada.org.</li></ul>Community-Based Peer Support:<ul><li>Lesson: Leverage the power of peer support by involving individuals in recovery as mentors and role models.</li><li>​Rationale: Peers who have successfully navigated recovery can offer unique insights, empathy, and motivation to those still struggling with substance use.</li><li>​Implementation: I currently have funding to establish peer support groups and training programs, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences among participants.</li></ul>I’d love to hear back from your own experiences! Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://portal.owlpractice.ca/iwtscanada/booking">HERE</a>&nbsp;to set up a free initial counselling session and share your experiences. What is something you have achieved after repeated failures?

​In “active” sobriety, as in life, I've learned that sometimes the best way to learn is to take a step back and look back at where you have come from.

3 Lessons I am Learning from Looking Back

Read the latest stories, insights, and resources on Indigenous recovery and 60s Scoop experiences. JD Associates’ blog shares personal journeys, healing tips, and cultural reconnection.

Blog | Indigenous Recovery Stories & 60s Scoop Insights | JD Associates

Explore our blog for Indigenous recovery stories, insights from the 60s Scoop survivor, and resources. JD Associates shares personal journeys, community news, and healing tools.

3 Lessons I am Learning from Looking Back

3 Lessons I am Learning from Looking Back

Related Posts

Get out of Jail Free Card

Combat poverty

5 Tricks I use to get into my Passion Zone!

Canadian Native Fastpitch Championship

Always give more than you receive!