Step One AA (What is it and how do I do it?)

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Did you find this video helpful? Please LIKE, COMMENT and SHARE with anyone who may benefit from this content and my channel. Thank you 💜

[@annabelleholguin4392]

I found this video very informative. It help me go go back and see how alcohol has affected my life.

[@leahwakefield9922]

Yes your defantally helped me just bk from 4 monthes horrible relaspe thankyou so much x got excelent sponcer of 20 years of sobriety god bless x

[@truthexposer2480]

Very damaging video, maybe based in ego? Our literature and our Traditions are fine, and have been for 84-years! Whatever makes you think we need your personal opinion?

[@mfregeau59]

@@truthexposer2480 why do you think this is damaging?

[@jalzinho1]

@@truthexposer2480 Go do an inventory.

[@annieso6757]

Powerlessness means that I on my own cannot keep myself away from alcohol in any form. I am 36 years sober I am powerless now. Powerlessness is not what happens after I drink. I ask God every morning to KEEP me away from a drink because I am powerless today. I ask God to manage my life Then I thank Him at night.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Sorry, I don't agree with that perspective. I was powerless to not pick up that next drink when I was actively addictied to alcohol, but I gradually gained back the power of my thinking, my emotions and my body. I maintain my spiritual practice and do ask God for help everyday, but I am not powerless today.

[@MsSmoothieking]

34 years here. This is correct.

[@MsSmoothieking]

Meaning Annie’s comment

[@rachelblackburn669]

Yeah , as an alcholic you are always powerless against that drink! Make no mistake.

[@danielstephens3274]

I just started my step 1 with you, thanks for bein here and explaining how to go about it. ...much love and Respect....

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome and much good luck to you. Keep going, it's worth it!

[@keemandikotravels]

Just found your channel. Thanks so much. I am now doing my 3rd IOP in 10 years. I think I finally have the help I need and the determination to get away from this demon alcohol. 38 days today and feeling hopeful for the future. ❤❤😊

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Much good luck to you 🙏

[@denisemenefee8200]

I am listening to you with almost 32 years clean (10-20-92), and thank you for helping me understand my first step again. Also, it is great to hear that it's the ONLY step that I have to do perfectly.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm so glad you found it beneficial. Congratulations on 32 years!!

[@Jcaldridge08]

Wow! I'm struggling right now with alcohol and whether I'm an alcoholic, and if AA is right for me, or if the 12 steps is what I need. The way you just broke this down was amazing and absolutely describes my life with alcohol! I will be watching the rest of your 12 step videos right now!!! Thankyou so much!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. Glad you found it helpful.

[@BrentFranklin-u5z]

Starting step 1 and have a sponser. Thanks for your video, im about to watch the next in the series

[@JohnMackay-kn3rl]

A person can't solve a problem if they deny that. It exists.

[@35Shawtie]

I have went through most of the steps. But, I love listening to your videos because they are beneficial to newcomers to A.A. . Almost like A.A 101.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you are finding the videos beneficial!

[@marvinrabauliman770]

Amazing how simple you put it. I have been procrastinating on doing my steps thinking the meeting attendance is enough for me. Right after this comment I will start writing down all the unmanageable things that went on in my life due to my addiction. I hope this helps me get a step closer to really solidifying my admittance to my powerlessness and unmanagbility and with all the reservations I still have.

[@behnooshazizi926]

First time in your channel , great work , thank you ❤❤❤❤❤

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you. Glad you are enjoying ☺️

[@anastasias.843]

I'm 111 days sober and I just want to let you know that I really enjoy how you break everything down💖☺ I will absolutely be listening to all of the steps with you.. Stacey💋

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you, Stacey. I'm glad to know you are benefiting from the videos. Congrats on you 111 (112) days of sobriety 🎉 That's awesome!

[@fishyfun221]

Sooooo helpful! I'll be 5 years sober on Sunday but just now got my first sponsee (Yaaay!!!). I'm insecure aa to how to present the steps to her and this was SUPER helpful!!! Thank you so very much. I called my sponsor for advice, but she hasn't called back yet so that's when I looked you up. Thank you!!!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Alli! Happy 5 years!! I'm glad you found this video helpful. Good luck with your sponsee. Remember, no matter what, this is about you staying sober and you are not responsible for her sobriety. I was so codependent in the beginning, so it took me awhile to learn to let go of the outcome.

[@englishpackers-fan7026]

I'm not commenting to be entered into the draw as i live in another country, just gave you a thumbs up because your video has really helped me. Im coming up to 11 months sober and ive just got my first sponsee. She's a frail older lady with a mobility scooter. Asking her to pray on her knees and that kind of thing isn't possible as she's got arthritis, but she can put pen to paper. Thanks for the exercise suggestion on powerlessness.

[@jakubbojczuk5781]

Thank you for explaining why it 'We' and not 'I' are powerless.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are welcome! Glad it was helpful.

[@ReynoldSooklal]

Hey good night Iam liking this Iam now 79days sober .

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Keep it up 🙌

[@stevegray1100]

I'm going through the steps and I found you. Your very easy to understand and I appreciate you. Thank you...

[@ReynoldSooklal]

Hi am almost 7 mounts sober.now am thinking about the recovery program Love how you explaning the steps

[@brucebakken1231]

This is THE BEST recovery channel ❤

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you. I'm so glad you feel that way ❤️❤️

[@bamafan1411]

We refers to the first 100. We of Alcoholics anonymous are more than 100 men and women who have recovered from a hopeless state of mind and body. To show others how we have recovered is the main purpose of this book.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes, exactly. Thank you.

[@jackieangelson5606]

Thank you so much! I have been struggling with step one and you helped me see clearly what I need to surrender.

[@bethsteen5142]

I am a binge drinker, and I really learned a lot from you. I have a sponsor and attend AA meetings regularly. This is my 2nd time doing the steps. Thank you!! 😃

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you found the video to be helpful, Beth. Best of luck to you in doing your Steps again. I apologize for the late response, but I've been sick the past couple of weeks and I'm just now starting to feel better.

[@jenniferbridges1777]

I found this breakdown very helpful.

[@stacyjames9711]

You're a FORMER Binge Drinker I Pray. The 1st step MUST be done PERFECTLY.

[@natnichaburke8402]

Really great Steps explain! I just started my recovery in Emotions Anonymous 4 months ago. I was really and obviously powerless over my emotions- my anger. I have both compulsive & impulsive behaviors around my anger and I have hurt people around me pretty badly. And I could see my life was about to be unmanageable if I did not turn around. Thank you for adding a note that these 12 steps can apply to any compulsion because I can totally relate. I’ll definitely keep watching your videos as I work the steps with my sponsor (I’m currently working Step 2) 🙏🏼

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you found it helpful. Good luck with your emotions Anonymous program. I've heard good things about it 👍

[@MeredithRyncarzPhotography]

The concept of we was something I never realized.. but it makes so much more sense as a group. Great video

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks for watching 💜

[@marysmith4527]

Thank you for your dedication to folks in recovery. My husband and I have ran a support group Ministry in WV and I am new to your material. Looking forward to using your videos in class tonight.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi, Mary. Nice to meet you! I hope your class found the video to be helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@gabrielagherir3660]

Love the way you explain step 1 you look so happy being sober would love to here your testimony one day God bless you

[@ChassityHall]

Hello I'm Chassity and thank you . Your helping me make sense of my journey

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm so glad it was helpful!

[@gabrielagherir3660]

I just started on step 1 I surrendered to step 1 I suffered from alcoholism for many years I’m tired I tried to stop and I relapsed so many times I just started step 1 I want to succeed this time I’m glad I’m not alone I have a sponsor wish me luck I can do this 😊

[@joellangton3944]

Good perspective on the January step! Thanks!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was helpful!

[@marlabrowning8239]

Loved this..thank you..I am a new Sponsor and using everything I can find to help Ms Sponcee to heal and grow

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Marla! Glad you found it helpful.

[@sandraweinert3707]

Thanks for the update on the first step

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome!

[@allisoncall4865]

Loved this video! I’m working on my steps now and this was very helpful! Thank you again

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're so welcome! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@nicolethatcher1492]

Love your videos where do I start with all your content? It’s day one for me

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Nicole! Congratulations on day #1. I would recommend going through the different playlists that interest you. I try to structure the channel so that it is organized in a way that makes it easy to find the videos and information you are interested in. If you look at the different sections on my channel, there should be one that contains all the different play lists. Good luck with your new lifestyle and let me know if you have any other questions.

[@ninibren]

You did such a great job explaining step one and the concepts. Thank you for breaking it down the way you did.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Brenda! You are most welcome. I'm glad to know you enjoyed the video. I hope you have a great day!

[@keithhickey857]

Thank you for this 1st step video. The way you explained things is the first time it really made since to me.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Keith! I'm so glad to know you found it helpful 🙌

[@annieso6757]

I think I did step one even before going to aa. I screamed the I can’t all by myself the grace of God then broke through.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Sounds like a wonderful experience.

[@andw7185]

Found this very helpful!! Im doing step one with a new sponsee today and will be using some of these tips!! Ty!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was helpful!

[@deepitaly724]

thank you so much for making this video. Very clearly explain the concept of this program. I am doing my 1st step. your tips are very helpful.

[@billbournias3798]

Such a great summary of stp 1 thank u Bill B

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you, Bill. I'm glad you found it helpful.

[@MikeSanseverino]

thank you so much for ur advice , starting to write down how using has made my life unmanageable in my iphone notes… currently 10 hours off not feeling terrible

[@christssongm3229]

Thank you Fostering Resilience for your support videos.im chris in recovery .i just had my 18 months free from alcohol and drugs.you videos on steps are very helpful I do have a sponsor.i also like the meditation videos it helps a great deal step 11.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congrats on you 18 months!! I'm glad to know you are finding the videos to be helpful. Sorry for the late response. I've been moving this week and just now catching up on my comments.

[@rafadeleon7699]

I just found your chanel and I subscribed after watching the first video I think is pure gold the way you breakdown the steps.I'm a recoveryng alcoholic and I think it's DOPE thank you for sharing.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Rafa! I appreciate your kind words. Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for subscribing!!

[@heathermoore6698]

Loved this video - thank you so much. I took notes and will be using them tonight for a lead share on step 1. 😊🙏🏻

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you found it so helpful.

[@clericknight7304]

We are all connected. I knew this but learned more today from having a mental health sponsor to hang with. What we do under the affects of alch effects everyone. For me I risked shop lifting alch when I didn’t have it and I didn’t see that effects how you are viewed. Let’s keep the law of the land we live in and let’s be our best to better serve others. Love you all keep up the struggle and remember to not do it alone and be well

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks, Johnny. Appreciate you sharing your experience. I apologize for the late reply. I've had Covid and just now starting to feel better after about 2 weeks being out of commission.

[@roxanneb4874]

Thank you for going thru the Steps KJ.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you for watching, Roxanne 💜

[@victoriacloud591]

I have finally been able to complete some step 1 writing. Thank you!!!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

That's great, Victoria! Glad the video was helpful. Sorry for the late response.

[@antpearson9676]

This was first rate. I'm back on step 1. And the binge drinking aspect of this video made a very large penny drop Thanks Ant p uk

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm glad you found it helpful.

[@Blys6]

Thank you i dont have a sponsor as of yet but i really want to working the steps as im doing my shadow work to heal.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You can do it!

[@Blys6]

@@DRKJFOSTER thank you

[@Richard-yx8se]

This has helped me tremendously

[@iversonsteve4382]

I enjoy listening to you.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm glad to know you are enjoying.

[@longshotrandyrecovery5231]

Really enjoyed this video!! Great break down of the first step ... looking forward to watch some of the more recent videos -Longshot Randy

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lynniek3481]

Thank You, for helping me start my journey!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are so welcome!

[@robynadams9211]

I’m working through your 12 step videos as I work with clients ❤

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Great! I hope you find it helpful.

[@christinam.price.4565]

I'm new to the steps. And this helped. Thanks alot. Dr. K.J Foster

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome, Christina. I'm glad to know you found it helpful 😊🌺💗

[@danielvargas9321]

Thank you for your help with clearing up a few issues I had with the first step

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome! Glad you found it helpful.

[@barbarahensley7583]

Thank you first the first step ! I got a sponsor yesterday big book is on the way

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Awesome! Congrats, Barbara!

[@leahwakefield9922]

Hello iam from uk iam just back in 11 days after bad relaspe just got a lovely sponcer stsrting my step one you really enspired me hope your well thankyou xx

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Fantastic! So glad you found this helpful. You got this! Congrats on 11 days!!!

[@leahwakefield9922]

@@DRKJFOSTER Thankyou x

[@easyray3012]

Hi, This the first time I've encountered your channel. Thank you for your insights into Step 1.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are so welcome! Glad you found it helpful.

[@navysteve95]

My first step experience came at the feet of someone's good 12 step work I got sober on step 2 While I understand the communal aspects of the 12 steps ( sober by the Grace of God since10/15/89) I knew what booze did to me. Whenever I am feeling restless, irritable, and discontent I am one step ( or more) toward a drink. I don''t mean to be disrespectful, and please feel free to tell me to get bent I would like to suggest that you review step one in the Big Book. Bill Wilson himself said the 12&12 was intended to broaden and expand from the Big Book. The 12&12 are just essays, they are not the directions on How to work the Steps For a newcomer the Big Book is the foundation Not the 12&12 I am not bashing ir Im probably stupid for commenting

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Steve -Thanks for sharing your experience and congrats on your 30 years of recovery! It was easy for me to calculate because my son was born in 89 😊💜

[@truthexposer2480]

100% spot on. Dangerous when an ego takes over something that was freely given, and doesn’t need anybody to comment!

[@dylannaugle2890]

I lost the power to choose to drink or not drink. Me believing I have to choose not to drink is like believing I have to choose to not hold my hand in a fire. The truth is, when my sanity is restored, I can't drink even if I think about it. Being an alcoholic the hard truth is if i dont maintain spiritual fitness the insanity will return and I'll drink even if I don't want to. So I do not become powerful over alcohol that's silly. I experience a deep internal shift as a result of the 12 steps and if freed from thinking about drinking and thinking about not drinking.

[@RWS1255]

I have some time. Thanks for this. I'm going through my steps again with a new sponsor.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome! Good luck!!

[@jescaraymond7554]

Thank you so much for this helpful information 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome, Jesca. I'm glad you found it helpful.

[@mariavecchio5272]

I love this program and yes We is so important. 🙏🙏🙏

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes! Thanks for watching 💜

[@prairiedawncote9584]

Thank you for this video

[@DRKJFOSTER]

My pleasure 🙏

[@anavec26]

I am sooo excited you are going over all the steps!!! The "we" makes so much more sense now! I changed my verbiage when I taught my yoga class this morning say "we", when we know better we do better, thank you so much KJ!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you, Ana! I'm so glad you are finding my videos to be helpful 💜 I appreciate you and your support!

[@davidmarlow8690]

Love your content been struggling wih alcohol 27 years

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi David! Sorry to hear of your struggle, but glad to know you are enjoying my content. Hopefully you've found some beneficial resources to aid you in your recovery.

[@999mmj]

I so appreciate approach to the steps; after being in AA for lots of 24 hours and clearly being eluded by the concepts, and having relapses, I am truly humbled to have found your channel. I am obviously a later comer to this, but at this time last year, I was attending live AA meetings and did not dabble in any type of online recovery channel. Now in the time of Covid, we all had to expand our comfort zone and willingness to do Zoom meetings in order to stay sober...many gifts have come from this even in light of the despair. I consider finding your channel one of the gifts, even if I cherry pick and just find the steps for AA! lol Thanks Maureen J Sober date 10/09/2019 #retread

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Maureen - Welcome to my channel. I"m glad you are finding it helpful. I also offer Free Recovery Support groups online 3 times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. They are not 12 Step meeetings, but many who participate in 12 Step recovery also attend my meetings. They are compassion focused and start with a brief mindfulness meditation. If you're interested you can register on my website at drkjfoster.org

[@999mmj]

@@DRKJFOSTER I was actually looking to get back into therapy for trauma, but there's no harm in participating in this too thank you

[@miaboami4718]

Hi dr foster! Thank you so much for this video. I am in early recovery and would love to join your online support group. How do I sign in. Can you please give me the info. This video clearly explains step 1 better than I ever could understand! Thank you again!🙏👍💜

[@DRKJFOSTER]

@@miaboami4718 go to my website at www.drkjfoster.org and click on the free recovery support meeting link. that will take you to the links to register for the free meetings 👍

[@miaboami4718]

@@DRKJFOSTER thanks much! Have a nice safe weekend! 😝♥️

[@genastiller8122]

Great step 1 coverage!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you, Gena. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@rachelharvey207]

❤ thank you for sharing this ❤️

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are so welcome!

[@diewayhatezachtheyt5749]

hi ya your video was great I'm meeting up with my sponsor today to start my step 1. God bless you and thanks again. Jon Clarke Southend-on-sea

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@brycemuir6464]

Thanks for the share.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching, Bryce.

[@lorraineblair6053]

Hi I'm trying to get my first day clean trying to ass time till I go to a meeting and you have gave me a lightbuld moment, and right now pushing through not to pick up that 1st one

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Lorraine - Good luck to you. Sobriety is a wonderful life.

[@dionel8]

I find it very helpful. I need a sponsor, and was wondering if you link members to potential sponsors

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you found it helpful. No, unfortunately this is not something I'm able to do.

[@TamaraRapier]

thanks for sharing this about step one i am currently in process of working steps and looking for a sponsor

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Good luck finding a sponsor, Tamara.

[@margarethazel9239]

yes I did find it healthful, I'm starting my steps and it has help me how to write out my thoughts..

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Awesome. So glad it was helpful.

[@dionisiotome2832]

Just find the video, I’m really greatfull, that’s how can describe how powerful the program is..and the way you explain the step is really understandable...got a lot from that...Thanks for the Suport ... isn’t about I is about we that was good.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks so much, Dionisio. Glad it was helpful!

[@kimberlydewberry774]

Amazing, how wonderful that share is. A we program you truly understand and l can share. Being teachable and remaining reachable thank you Dr.KJFoster

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are so welcome. Thnk you, Kimberly.

[@asadebrahimian9392]

Hi ,it was useful for me ur massage thanks,

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are welcome. Glad you found it useful.

[@iamwaterbeach9537]

Really Helpful - Thank you 🙏

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was helpful!

[@maclovioberumen1917]

Thank you, you are very useful. Never had it explained to me this way before. Every dum ass told me it's a given and theres nothing to do in the first step. Boy , they are so wrong.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks Maclovio! I'm glad to know you found it useful 👍

[@bigmack2x68]

WaKe Up To Peace It is very Hopefully My Recovery Sister Keep Up the Great Work Mo Love in your LiFe

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you,, Timothy. Thanks for watching and for your kind words.

[@TeaPourSixFour]

Wish I could share the journaled notes 📝 here, organized & colorful, from pausing & being with this video. You are clear & supportive and just lovely. It takes a village to raise a village I like to say, so when we are learning (or in my case RE-learning or UN-learning) something its good to have a village of support and many unique voices. After many moons in program work : on / off etc, coming again to foundation this Basic Step One concept is all I’m marinating in: especially this weekend but also all January. Thank so much Dr. KJ .. and I’ll check out Kisha’s channel ;). Thank you, Ms. Ayden B., Western USA

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi, Ms. Ayden. I'm so glad to know you enjoyed the video. I hope you have a beautiful day!

[@michaelheary2754]

We - the first 100 or so . There is no mention of “ working “ the steps as a group anywhere in the text. If there is please explain. Reference page numbers please.

[@dee5331]

Thanks teacher

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are welcome

[@Karenkmc1]

Ok ...Step 1 read 🤓thanks for what you do Dr KJ😷

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are so welcome 👍

[@paulelliott1061]

Very helpful thank you

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Lakarlacardenas]

Great stuff

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you!

[@mkartmkart6335]

Thank you, very helpful video ! I am a musician who have stopped chasing the dragon, and chase melodies instead :)

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're very welcome! I have a son who is also a musician. Glad to hear you stopped chasing the dragon. Much continued good luck to you for your recovery journey 🙏

[@michaeljohns8817]

WHAT is your solution ???? Rehab ????? How much does rehab cost ????

[@lonewulfmo9128]

Hi Dr Kj I just stumbled across this channel. Awesum! Amazing! I like the brevity of your content, it not lengthy, verbose n convoluted. I also like ur professional background n personal experience. Ok currently I'm watching ur videos w sum 1 who I've been tasked to help with his alcohol use problem. English not our first language but although you talk quickly we do both understand n benefit from ur content as we watch together, we've started on step 1. I'd be curious ur view on a problem I'm encountering soo much w addicts I'm walking with. Many don't know where to go with their wrecked marriages/relationships, both male n female. Often times wives who want nothing to do w recovering guys n codependent recovering ladies whose hubbies abandoned. Keep in mind we in Africa so there often pressure on women to remain wives AND families of addict side w non using partner.If u can do video w Ur proffesional views please Dr? Lastly this channel really is amazing, considering how much is invested into it. However my brief experience w African teens is they like videos w colorful Images n their attention not held long by people talking as adults are. If possible be nice to see stuff for teens here too

[@DRKJFOSTER]

HI again Lone wulf mo - I'm glad you are enjoying the content and I really appreciate your suggestions. I will try to incorporate some more colorful images in my videos and address some of the issues that are faced in marriages and relationships. It's such a personal issue, in terms of when the partner has hit their bottom and decides enough is enough. There's not that unconditional love that is there with children (or should be there with children) so it makes it harder for the partner to stick it out. Most of the time it is based on their own misunderstandings about addiction or the marriage/relationship wasn't strong (due to other contributing issues) to begin with. You've given me some great ideas and feedback. Thank you again!

[@biancaheeren4809]

I’ve been going to meetings but I am so scared to talk and I just listen and keep going back but idk how to really open up

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Give yourself time. It will happen when you're ready.

[@pranabsarma1502]

Thank you

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@tekaramramnarace2367]

Hi thanks u are very good

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you too. I appreciate your kind words and support.

[@joekotynek6895]

great break down of step one. Question for you. How much self-disclosure do you use in a session with a client? Seems like you have a lot of power from your past and I am wondering how you use that professionally. Thank you.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Joe - glad you enjoyed the video. Most people I work with are already aware of my history, at least to some degree, based on this channel and other sources, such as my books, so it is a bit different than when you go to a therapist and you don't know much aside from perhaps information from your referral source. I find self disclosure, especially when it comes to recovering from a substance use disorder, to be very powerful, which is why I recommend finding a counselor who has recovered themselves. Often, individuals who are technically trained in substance use disorders, but don't have any personal experience, bring their own judgments and bias into the relationship and can do more damage than good. Especially those who have family members with substance use disorders and have not fully recovered themselves from the impact of their loved ones' addiction. I've heard all kinds of stories about wild things that counselors have told people to do or not do, that has been very inappropriate and harmful. With that said, how much self-disclosure I use depends on the client and the discussion. I use self-disclosure to the extent that it will benefit the client and is appropriate to the discussion. It's always key to remain mindful that the session is about the client and that they are given the time and the appropriate tools to help them move forward. The foundation of my approach is based in positive psychology, with a compassionate and solution-focused approach. Thanks for watching and for the question. I hope you have a wonderful day.

[@joekotynek6895]

@@DRKJFOSTER Thanks for that great response! I am an MSW student and working in SUD and have thought that self disclosure is a very useful tool to help create a collaborative relationship with clients. Some don't think this way of course, and as a student I am trying to navigate the balance between the different perspectives.

[@stefanObauer]

What happened to tradition 11? “Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio and films.”

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Stefan - I am not promoting myself as a member of AA. I am not a member of AA. I am an educator with a PhD in counselor education, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Addiction Professional, Trauma Specialist and I am certified in Mindfulness Mediation. You will find a variety of educational resources on my channel that are intended to help individuals and families recover from a variety of issues. I, personally, am someone who utilized 12-Step programs to help recover from a substance use disorder and codependency. I utilize other programs as well and also educate people about the many different resources that are available to them aside from 12 Step programs. If I promote anything it is that there are many different resources and programs available to those who want to recover from alcoholism, drug addiction, codependency and all the other forms of addiction. Also, I own my anonymity. It is not dictated by any other individual or any organization. I get to choose how and who I share my personal experience and recovery with, and I choose to live my recovery out loud. I appreciate your concern and thank you for watching.

[@noahshinneman5459]

Thank you, great insights made easily accessible to us all, I hope. If I might offer one idea 🙇🏽‍♂️, the poster in the background - beneath the wise commentary of HH the Dalai Lama is the Chinese character aì “love”, which seems so odd given that the Chinese tried to kill him and he had to flee his country, now living in exile since 1959. 🙇🏽‍♂️ May the force be with you. And thank you for letting me share that.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you for sharing that bit of information. My take is that it represents what the Dalai Lama embodies, which is, in fact, "love" 💟 Appreciate you sharing your thoughts.

[@noahshinneman5459]

Well, maybe consider using the Tibetan word for love rather than the language of his oppressors.

[@asha36636]

Amazing

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks, Asha! I hope you are having a wonderful day.

[@soberaub6001]

When someone can go for a long time to not drink may mean he may have been a moderate drinker or a heavy drinker. Or he had fear running his life because on his last drink he had a very bad experience. Some alcoholics can stay sober for long lengths of time because of fear or was threatened if he does not stop drinking he will lose his job and wife or whatever. Over time when he becomes restless, irritable and discontented and if he is a real alcoholic he will eventually pick up again.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I am someone who was psychologically addicted, the compulsion of the mind. I never became physically addicted, but was addicted just the same. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience.

[@soberaub6001]

POWERLESSNESS means I had to study to understand what alcoholism was. How alcohol affected my mind and body. I suffer the obsession of the mind and when I took a drink I could not stop. I always drank more than I intended. I lost choice in drink . I was powerless and without help from a Higher Power it was too much for us.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you for watching and sharing.

[@KellyMoen]

Thx for sharing :-)

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. Thank you for watching.