177 - Maya B - Masters Level Dope Addict to Masters Level Clinician
Release Date: 05/06/2021
Real Recovery Talk
In this episode, we delve into the complex journey of addiction and recovery, exploring the stages of change individuals may encounter on their path to healing. From the initial recognition of a problem to the maintenance of long-term sobriety, we unravel the intricate web of emotions, challenges, and triumphs that characterize this transformative process. Through personal stories and professional guidance, we aim to shed light on the multifaceted nature of addiction recovery, offering hope, understanding, and practical strategies for those navigating their own path towards recovery or...
info_outline 370 - Crushed by 2,000 lb steel plate: Adam's Unstoppable JourneyReal Recovery Talk
If you are struggling with ANYTHING AT ALL please feel free to reach out to us: Buckle up, folks, because today's episode is a rollercoaster ride of resilience and redemption! Meet Adam, the man who survived being crushed by a massive 2000-pound steel plate—and wouldn't change a thing about it. We'll dive into Adam's incredible story of survival, exploring the moment that changed his life forever and the remarkable journey of recovery that followed. From the depths of despair to the heights of triumph, Adam's tale is a testament to the human spirit's indomitable strength. But Adam's journey...
info_outline 369 - From North to South: Nate's Journey to Sobriety in FloridaReal Recovery Talk
Join us in this episode as we dive into the inspiring journey of Nate, a guy who found his way to sobriety without the confines of traditional treatment centers. Nestled in the heart of Tallahassee, Florida, Nate's story is one of resilience, community, and finding light in the darkest of times. Without the need for fancy programs, Nate carved his path to sobriety through the supportive embrace of the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Through shared experiences, laughter, and tears, he found a solid foundation of friends who became his lifeline on this challenging journey. Tune in as Nate...
info_outline 368 - Double Birthday Bash: Ben and Tom both TURNING 40!Real Recovery Talk
Hey party people! Grab your balloons and confetti because this episode is a double celebration! Join us as we pop champagne and blow out the candles for a special occasion: Ben and Tom both turning the big 4-0 on the exact same day! But this ain't your typical birthday bash. Nope, we're diving deep into the journey of turning 40 and what it means for us, especially considering our shared journey through sobriety. From wild nights to clear mornings, we've seen it all, and now we're ready to share our reflections. We'll reminisce about the good ol' days when a night out meant bar-hopping and...
info_outline 367 - Bringing AWARENESS to Male Sexual TraumaReal Recovery Talk
In this deeply personal episode, we sit down with Ben as he opens up about his journey through childhood sexual trauma. With raw honesty and vulnerability, Ben shares the painful experiences that once haunted him, and how he discovered the power of helping others by sharing his story. For years, Ben carried the weight of his past in silence, struggling with the scars left by his traumatic experiences. In this candid conversation, he bravely confronts the shadows of his past to find light and healing. Join us as Ben recounts the moment he realized that his story could make a difference in the...
info_outline 366 - How setting BOUNDARIES helped this young man get sober!Real Recovery Talk
In this touching episode, we delve into the powerful story of Josh's battle with addiction and his remarkable journey to sobriety. With heartfelt honesty, Josh shares how his mother, Julia, played a pivotal role by setting clear boundaries that ultimately led to his recovery. For years, Josh struggled with the grips of addiction, feeling trapped and lost. Despite his mother's unwavering love, it wasn't until Julia decided to establish firm boundaries that Josh began to see a way out. Join us as Josh opens up about the challenging moments of facing tough love and accountability. Through tears...
info_outline 365 - Why SLEEP is so important ESPECIALLY in early recoveryReal Recovery Talk
In this episode, we delve into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of addiction recovery: sleep. Join us as we explore the profound impact of quality rest on the journey towards sobriety. We'll uncover the science behind how addiction disrupts sleep patterns and discuss the challenges individuals face in achieving restorative sleep during recovery. Through this episode with, we'll examine the importance of addressing sleep disturbances as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. From practical tips for improving sleep hygiene to strategies for managing insomnia and other sleep disorders, this...
info_outline 364 - Why Experiential Therapy and Art can HEAL your addictionReal Recovery Talk
If you are struggling with ANYTHING AT ALL please feel free to reach out to us: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, host Tom Conrad is joined by licensed mental health counselor Brian Wood, known as B Wood, and primary therapist Maya to discuss the transformative impact of experiential therapy in substance abuse and mental health treatment. Through a deep dive into B Wood's journey from Barbados to becoming a pivotal figure in art therapy, the discussion reveals how engaging with the arts and other experiential modalities can facilitate healing beyond traditional talk therapy. By...
info_outline 363 - Virtual Therapy for Drug addiction and alcoholism: Does it ACTUALLY WORK?Real Recovery Talk
In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we delve into the topic of online counseling in the journey towards recovery. Join us as we explore the emergence of virtual therapy platforms and their role in breaking down barriers to access treatment. We will share our opinions for who it is best for and who will most likely benefit the most from virtual therpy. If you have any questions you can reach us at [email protected]
info_outline 362 - How Yoga and Fitness changed my life foreverReal Recovery Talk
If you are struggling with ANYTHING AT ALL please feel free to reach out to us: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, host Tom Conrad and Dr. Tambini engage in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with guest Morgan, exploring her unique journey from battling addiction to rediscovering her passion for yoga and fitness and eventually contributing positively to the recovery community. Morgan candidly shares the pivotal moments that led her from giving up her childhood swimming passion for partying to her subsequent struggle with addiction. Through her recovery journey, Morgan discovers the...
info_outline“I wanted to take something hard that I had to go through that was painful and help another human being to get through without struggling as hard as I did.” -Maya
Today, Ben and I are chatting to Maya who is a full-time employee at Rock Recovery Center. She is here to talk about her past history and how she became a professional in the substance abuse space.
Why Maya Chose to Work with Recovering Addicts
“I never thought that I’d be here working in mental health and the substance abuse field,” Maya says about her career choice. She is excited to be working with us at Rock Recovery Center and is an excellent fit for our team.
She was born and raised in Florida, growing up in an upper-middle-class family with a strong work ethic. However, both her parents were addicts, and her dad died of his disease. “I never felt a part of, or good enough, or that I belonged in any environment.”
Her parents divorced when she was one and didn’t have good relationships with her stepparents on either side. “I was an addict long before I picked up any substance,” as she was trying to validate her worth early on with love being conditional based on her achievements. As a result, she was a high-achiever in academics and sports. “It’s hard to maintain that level of expectations.”
Her First Drink at Age 15
She remembers feeling scared when she picked up her first drink at 15 and the feeling of the potential damage that could arise with drinking. “It’s like a switch flipped and it wasn’t very pleasant.” However, since there was some sense of relief, she continued with the addiction. It wasn’t long before her disease progressed and friends noticed. Dropping out of school in the next year, she moved from her prestigious private school to public school.
Waking Up and Realizing Her Addiction
Having had opiates in her system every day of her life for over a decade, Maya was struggling just to survive. When she woke up in the medical unit of jail, she gave up hope and thought she would die.
Listen in and find how Maya decided to become a mental health provider, why her recovery has to be separate from her work and clients, and her advice on how to deal with someone who is addicted.
Check out our new website where you can download any episode along with other useful information for those in recovery.
- Share this podcast with a friend and leave us a review!
Show Notes:
- [03:45] History and how she became addicted to alcohol and drugs.
- [07:49] Maya now embraces herself with her flaws and strengths.
- [08:30] Picking up her first drink at age 15 and the consequences of drinking.
- [11:17] Trying to forge her identity as an adolescent.
- [19:10] Her dad passes away and she ends up in jail for stealing a car.
- [27:10] Why addicts can’t stop even though they want to stop the addiction.
- [31:14] How she decided to become a licensed social clinical worker.
- [33:44] Her personal experience navigating as a clinical worker and being in active recovery.
- [34:22] How she separates her personal recovery and work life.
- [43:16] Maya’s advice for families dealing with a loved one’s addiction.
Episode Links and Resources
- Real Recovery Live Chat
- Real Recovery Talk on the Web
- Real Recovery Talk on YouTube
- Leave Real Recovery Talk a review on iTunes
- Rock Recovery Center
- Real Recovery Talk on Facebook
- Find out more about Al-Anon and how this resource can support your family
- Ideas for a show? Email us [email protected] and [email protected]
- Podcast editing and show notes by Pro Podcast Solutions