While S.A. Lifeline and SAL 12-Step do not provide therapy, we acknowledge that qualified therapy is a pivotal piece of working recovery for both the recovering addict and betrayed partner.
Qualified therapy provides the necessary safeguards and professional support that is imperative to the healing process. It is our experience that SAL 12-Step members often find that 12 to 24 months of therapy treatment is necessary although some stop earlier, and some continue longer. When we add this essential component to the spiritual aspects of the SAL 12 Steps, we can expect life-changing breakthroughs to happen.
As we work the SAL 12 Steps, we come to see our need for surrender and we are taught a clear process for how to surrender. But a qualified therapist plays a crucial role in helping us understand what we need to surrender. Many effective therapeutic strategies aim to make us more aware of the belief systems and past traumas that impede our spiritual, mental, and emotional growth. Understanding these usually hidden issues facilitates our progress as we work the SAL 12 Steps.
A qualified, licensed therapist is best suited to treat the specific issues that pertain to recovering addicts and betrayed partners without inflicting additional trauma. While others may offer comfort and support – clergy, life coaches, or well meaning friends and family members – they typically lack the critical educational background and experience that effective therapy requires.
“A good therapist can be one of our greatest allies in recovery. In fact, I encourage most recovering addicts to work with a therapist who has a deep commitment to the 12 steps, and an appreciation for the spirituality of recovery.”
– Patrick Carnes, PhD, A Gentle Path Through the 12 Steps, p. 13
Finding a Qualified Therapist
It is essential to choose a specialized therapist, one trained in sexual addiction and betrayal trauma. Search online for a C-SAT or APSATS-licensed therapist. You may consider asking SAL 12-Step group members for a referral. It is particularly helpful to work with a qualified therapist who understands the spiritual nature of recovery, the value of the SAL 12 Steps, and is familiar with key SAL 12-Step recovery tools such as sponsorship. Two essential elements of recovery – session work (therapy), and step work – complement each other beautifully. The following questions found on this PDF may help you to evaluate a therapist if you are unsure if they are right for your needs.
Therapeutic techniques that may be used for a qualified therapist may include:
- EMDR
- Full Disclosure
- Trauma Egg
- Empty Chair
- Lifespan Integration
In addition to therapy, it may be necessary for a qualified professional to evaluate your medical, sexual, and mental health.
Want more info on qualified therapy? Listen to the following Pathway to Recovery podcast episodes:
Brace for Impact: Why Qualified Therapy is Vital in Recovery w/ Josh Walpole