I was just wondering if any of you good people are professionals in the helping field (Ex. Therapists, counselors, peer support, etc.)
I guess i am seeking advice, support and hopefully someone that understands the struggle!
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Hi there! I have worked in the “helping field” for 15 years now. 5 years as a residential counsellor for a halfway house (also did reintegration work in jail and prison) and 10 years working in group homes with adults who have a combination of mental health and intellectual disabilities
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Yes worked in the therapy field over 20 years and its the biggest quandary in accessing support . I found that there was this crushing layer of " so if I’ve got this going on who do i go to?"
Ive chosen wellness over anything , I do a mix of this app but anonymous, some online AA groups and ive found a home group in person and a sponsor. My thoughts are just because we are in the helping feild having addiction doesnt mean we are unable to be effective potent helpers. I would say it depends on severity and i know when as a recovered bulimic my experience became my super power in therapy.
Im aware my alcohol dependence clouded my take on it in clients and im motivated by what recovery will bring to my work. Currently i wont work with anyone who presents with addictions
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I am a licensed Counselling Therapist where I live
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We do peer support here. So we are all specialists in this field and qualified to give support, and we all understand the struggle. That’s why we’re here! Advice is always very hard to give and often not needed.
And yes, I work in the field too, but that’s not my qualification for being here. My qualification is that I’m addicted. And in Recovery. And that we’re in this together. Professional help is to be found elsewhere. I’ve been in therapy for three years now but that’s not something I found here. I’m glad you’re here with us all, as together we’re strong and the more the better. Strength in numbers 
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I just sponsor guys through the program have done for over 36 years now , some of my guys over 25 years sober now so doing something right lol
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I am also a licensed therapist and this relapse really spun me out and i often feel i cant talk to anyone. Thank you for sharing that with me. Maybe we can talk more in the future.
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Thank you for sharing with me. That is exactly how i feel sometimes. Like who do i talk to…i mean i have a therapist went through program and i work the steps but like i just dont feel like i have anyone to talk to that knows both the stress of the work and the potential of a recoverying from a relapse
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For sure. Remember to get your self-care in 
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Im glad you posted about this and i do find that it can add different layers or obstacles. I think theres alot in helping profession that dont reach out for exactly this reason!
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Definitely. Peer support helps us all grow and learn.
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Id just like to add that i think all you lovely people in the helping field are absolute heroes, ive thought about going into that field but i know i would get too emotional and take work home with me…big respect to you all 
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Self care is where i messed up. During the pandemic we stayed out worked hard. In hindsight i know now that i emotionally relapse long before i went to the legal drug dealer…Alcohol. which is a substance i had never abused in my prior life.
To reatart this conversation i have been offered a new job in the field. I am excited but apprehensive. Any advice?
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We’re only human. We all make poor decisions especially when we’re overwhelmed overworked stressed anxious etc.
Don’t doubt yourself.
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Thanks! Those are the things i need to hear 
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Hey Guys! So i found out that i will be able to start my new job Monday! Thats a lot to process in such a short time. I havent worked since 1st of October plus i have to go buy a car this weekend. Feeling a little overwhelmed!!
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One thing at a time. First one is celebrating your success by giving yourself a pat on the back! Congratulations!
Next finding a car that suits your needs that is reliable for you and fits anything else you require of it.
The job is already yours so just go in being yourself on Monday. That’s why they hired you. You were enough for them, be enough for yourself too
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You are amazing thank you! i so needed those words. AND they are aware of my circumstances. So no secrets i am not having to hide things or be fearful. Im eagerly nervously excited!!!
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Thank you for your kind words 
you’re also very welcome. When I’m in situations like you’re in I also get panicked and struggle to just prioritize and organize the most important things first
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I can be a bit of an over thinker. Of course i struggle with feeling good enough. Even though sometimes i feel confident and then others i fear not being good enough. Its complicated i guess. We all have our issues. I thought earning degrees and licensures i would feel more confident but i still struggle. I have a great work ethic. Logically i know im a great employee then emotionally or mentally i doubt myself. Its an ongoing struggle. This is the first place in 10 years i feel safe enough to say that out loud to another person. It feels good. Thank you for your ongoing support. I know who to reach to as i get overwhelmed after i get started back.
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