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Understanding Emotional Sobriety and the Science of Healing with Dr. Andrew Krieger

Positive Recovery MD

Release Date: 10/14/2025

Understanding Emotional Sobriety and the Science of Healing with Dr. Andrew Krieger show art Understanding Emotional Sobriety and the Science of Healing with Dr. Andrew Krieger

Positive Recovery MD

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Dr. Andrew Krieger, DSW, MBA, LCSW-S, LCDC, is a private practice psychotherapist with extensive experience in direct practice social work, clinical program design and development, addiction treatment, and group psychotherapy. He received his Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California and holds both a Master of Clinical Social Work and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston.

Over the past 20 years, Dr. Krieger has worked with individuals and families as a private practice and group psychotherapist, specializing in addictive disorders, family therapy, group psychotherapy, and process addictions. He’s also held clinical positions at some of the leading addiction treatment programs in Texas. 

As Chief Executive Officer of Contemporary Medicine Associates (CMA) — the primary practice of Dr. Bo Allaire and Dr. Andrew Krieger — he leads a team specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. CMA also provides third-party medical services for psychiatric and addiction treatment facilities, as well as clinical and business consulting services for mental health providers.

 Originally founded over 20 years ago by Dr. Eugene Degner, one of the first board-certified addiction medicine doctors in Texas and a pioneer in the medical treatment of alcohol and drug addiction, CMA continues to honor Dr. Degner’s legacy through compassionate, expert care.

 Today, their doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals serve patients and families at every stage of addiction and recovery — providing a caring, non-judgmental environment where healing can truly begin. They also offer comprehensive support for individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, trauma, and anxiety.

In this conversation, Dr. Jason Powers and Dr. Andrew Krieger discuss the different phases of recovery, the science behind post-acute withdrawal syndrome, and the meaning of emotional sobriety. Together, they explore how long-term recovery is less about counting the years and more about integrity, emotional growth, and learning to live a life that’s genuinely fulfilling.

Topics Discussed:

  • Defining Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

  • The difference between co-occurring disorders & substance use disorder

  • Breaking down emotional sobriety into 3 main categories

  • Understanding the phases of recovery and personal growth

  • How perspective and integrity define Long-Term Sobriety, not just time

  • Finding fulfillment beyond survival in recovery

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CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD

01:09 Meet Our Guest: Andrew Krieger

01:40 Andrew's Journey to Sobriety

03:45 Career Transition and Professional Growth

06:36 Phases of Recovery

09:57 Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome & Co-Occurring Disorders

15:48 Emotional Sobriety Explained

20:00 Why Length of Abstinence Doesn’t Equate to Emotional Maturity

21:40 Personal Stories in Early Recovery

23:55 The Importance of Supportive Relationships and Accountability

27:55 Finding a Balance in Sobriety and New Experiences in Recovery 

31:58 Reflections on Personal Journey and Finding Peace 

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About Positive Recovery Centers:

 Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network. 

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!