The integrative model for recovery from abuse assumes that 'the problem' is primarily inside the abused person. Makes sense. This assumption underlies most therapeutic strategies for recovery from abuse. But suppose you started with the assumption that 'the problem' is not primarily inside anybody but rather 'between' people? Suppose the problem was most fundamentally a relational problem? You … [Read more...] about A Relational Model
Search Results for: Recovery from spiritual abuse
The Promises and Pitfalls of Congregation Based Support Groups
by Dale S. Ryan Introduction Support groups are becoming a common part of the life of local churches as congregations learn of their importance in the recovery process. Many congregational leaders recognize, however, that the process of starting and maintaining support groups may not be easy. Support groups are not some kind of magical programmatic fix for the ills of modern life. On the … [Read more...] about The Promises and Pitfalls of Congregation Based Support Groups
Recovery 101: Pastoral Care and Abuse
Most of the lectures in this course were part of a class entitled "Pastoral Care and Abuse" taught for many years at Fuller Theological Seminary by Dr. Dale Ryan. So what you will find here is the kind of material that might be helpful to pastors-in-training. Expect it to feel fairly protestant and generally evangelical (or post-evangelical, semi-evangelical, quasi-evangelical) in tone -- if these … [Read more...] about Recovery 101: Pastoral Care and Abuse
Women and Sexual Addiction
by Marnie Ferree While most people tend to assume that sexual addiction is a problem only for men, the evidence suggests the contrary. Addictions, all addictions, are pretty much equal opportunity diseases. And sexual addiction is no exception. Marnie Ferree is a pioneer in the treatment of female sex and relationship addicts. This article is material taken from a workshop she gave recently in … [Read more...] about Women and Sexual Addiction
Clerical Abuse
Because this site is primarily for clergy and other religious professionals it is particularly important to emphasize that clergy are at elevated risk for becoming perpetrators of some kinds of abuse -- and also at elevated risk for becoming victims of some other kinds of abuse. Religious Professionals as Abusers While public focus is generally limited to sexual abuse, there are other kinds … [Read more...] about Clerical Abuse
Chapter 7: Working With a Recovery Partner
The Living Free Program has been developed to help individuals look at painful experiences from their past that are continuing to influence their lives today. Participants in the program have an opportunity to redefine their knowledge and understanding of themselves through writing about and sharing their progress in recovery. A Christ-centered version of the Twelve Steps, as adapted from … [Read more...] about Chapter 7: Working With a Recovery Partner
Substance Abuse: The Hurt and the Hope
by Dale Wolery Substance abuse hurts people. It hurts the person who uses, and it hurts everyone who is touched by the person's addiction. The pain and power of substance abuse remain a destructive presence in every segment of our culture. Clearly we are losing the war on illegal drugs. All the efforts to reduce the supply have led to cheaper prices and higher-quality drugs. And we are losing … [Read more...] about Substance Abuse: The Hurt and the Hope
About Abusers
The first thing to remember about people who abuse other people is that they do not look like abusers. You can't tell by looking. Abusers seem normal. Judith Herman summarizes this well: Little is known about the mind of the perpetrator. Since he is contemptuous of those who seek to understand him, he does not volunteer to be studied. Since he does not perceive that anything is wrong with him, … [Read more...] about About Abusers
Breaking the Chains of Substance Abuse
an interview with Clark Burlew Clark Burlew is a recovering alcoholic who carrys the message of recovery to others. He has helped develop and administer treatment and recovery programs for many years. He is currently the Director of Marketing and Outpatient Services at Pacific Hills Treatment Centers in San Juan Capistrano, California. … [Read more...] about Breaking the Chains of Substance Abuse
Chapter 6: Organizing and Conducting the Living Free Program
The following schedule is a six-week plan that can serve as a guide in establishing a recovery support group program. Prior to formal planning, hold an exploratory meeting with individuals who are willing to support a recovery ministry. This initial gathering can help in identifying possible co-facilitators and others in the church who are familiar with twelve-step programs. It can also help in … [Read more...] about Chapter 6: Organizing and Conducting the Living Free Program