Relationships in Recovery Repairing Damage and Building Healthy Connections While Overcoming Addiction

One of the most devastating aspects of addiction is the damage it causes to relationships--with intimate partners, family, friends, or colleagues. But recovery programs often recommend that you focus solely on sobriety and dont emphasize the need to rebuild relationships. Psychologist and addictions expert Kelly Green wants to change that. Through her work with hundreds of clients, Dr. Green has learned that social support is key to the recovery process. This compassionate, judgment-free guide shares powerful tools you can use to recognize the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships, set and maintain boundaries, reestablish emotional intimacy, communicate your feelings and needs, and end harmful relationships respectfully. With inspiring stories and easy-to-use worksheets (you can download and print additional copies as needed), this book lights the way to a life untethered from addiction--and filled with positive connections

Introduction 1. Getting Started 2. Understanding the Interplay between Relationships, Addiction, and Recovery Efforts 3. Identifying Barriers to Working on Relationships and Staying Motivated 4. Exploring the Unhealthy and Healthy Aspects of Your Relationships 5. Developing Your Communication Skills 6. Providing and Seeking Validation 7. Being Honest with Yourself and Others 8. Rebuilding Trust 9. Setting and Maintaining Healthy Boundaries 10. Ending Relationships Appropriately 11. Building Emotional Intimacy 12. Monitoring Your Relationships and Relationship Skills Resources Index

Kelly E. Green, PhD, a clinical psychologist, is Associate Professor of Psychology at St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas, where she has received awards for research and teaching excellence. Dr. Green is a recognized expert in evidence-based addiction treatment. She maintains a private practice with a particular focus on helping clients and their loved ones improve their relationships in the context of addiction recovery.