MEDITATION & ADDICTIONS HEALING

Christmas message

2011-12-07T11:27:00.001-08:00

I'm sorry that I haven't blogged in quite some time… this has been due to the considerable pressures to run addiction related retreats… which is a very purpose of our unique service. the addiction field as a whole tends to respond to crisis this makes it difficult to schedule standard tasks. a realized that people do indeed read my blogs and I want to make a commitment to offering more regular blog entries in the coming year. this will correspond with the new updated website and blog! and I am of course happy to respond to any e-mail inquiries as this is currently the way that most people like to communicate with our service... info@innercare.orgSince we work with a range of families and couples, we naturally offer marriage-couples retreats that is central to the work we do and her Christmas message is a simple response and a reminder of the centrality of spiritual processes in relationships... is simple but core message in an increasingly complicated and busy world. What would the world be like if couples regularly prayed and meditated together? Surely the quality of their relationships would deepen!?

Peace,Brianinfo@innercare.orgwww.innercare.org is

Why look for a new type of rehab?

2011-08-22T13:38:00.004-07:00

To all,
Sorry I haven't blogged for a little while... been too busy!

I'd like to pick up on a few themes rather than continue to comment on the articles that are freely available on my website.
firstly let's talk about why somebody would need an alternative approach to rehab.

I would suggest the following reasons:
1. they've tried conventional rehab and found it did not meet their needs.
2. they already know of the limits of conventional rehab and wish to explore any viable alternative.
3. they are interested in the 12 step approach but have underlying and unknown blocks to exploring spirituality... the higher power issue.

I hope there are others out there who also offer alternative approaches that are based on formal spiritual training.
I hope the addiction world can change and move toward a more serious approach to meditation.
I hope that potential clients for these new services can also awaken themselves the need for a deep spiritual process, and can know that this is only possible when this is guided by an experienced spiritual guide... otherwise is simply the blind leading the blind!

Innercare Services International Inc. seeks to offer a deeply impactful residential retreat process, based on a combination of ancient and modern methods.... meditation and psychotherapy. Due to my unusual background and experience I'm able to offer retreats that combine these methods... this leads to speedy, deep, and profound changes.

Our clients are truly grateful as they have experienced for the first time a meeting with themselves and an energy that goes beyond themselves: many choose to call 'God'. This experience is so impactful that it restructures their consciousness, and their life goals. I've had the privilege of seeing many, many people attend or retreats and change their lives.... with a sustainable change, because they have the necessary skills required for daily self-care, and if necessary are willing to attend tune-up retreats.

Wishing you peace, and encouraging your to your own daily meditation practice.

Peace,
Brian

Addiction healing - an inward journey

2011-07-07T14:33:00.007-07:00

Hi,

As I have already mentioned my articles that are posted on my website... I would like to go further and make them available here and also briefly comment on them, as they are easy to miss on the site and yet are very informative.

So here is the initial article and brief video comment:

"Most of the rehab focus is on an outward interpersonal focus - group counseling. Having worked at a senior level in the rehab field for many years, I have learnt that the interpersonal focus is not the way to go. So, in response our retreats are formal retreats, established to encourage and support a great deal of self-reflection.

I come from a monastic and retreat based background, having spent many years as a Monk. Throughout my time offering spiritual guidance, I was struck by how much more healing was achieved in this setting, as opposed to conventional rehab. I have responded by establishing a company a few years ago, which offers a new model combing the best aspects of the retreat world with Psychotherapy and addiction treatment - Innercare Services International Inc.

Silence is an essential aspect of formal retreats. Silence is profoundly healing as it allows the individual to face him or herself, without resorting to mood altering chemicals to cope. Clients are then much more at ease with themselves and attuned to their moment-by-moment process. As a consequence, far better choices made etc. This impacts all aspects of the person’s life, and this can then be reinforced through daily reflective meditation practice.

Throughout Innercare Services International Inc. retreats there is

an emphasis on the practical matter of imparting psychological and spiritual skills, that can sustain the person beyond the retreat, and can then be utilized for the rest of their lives. This gives both a sense of hope and self-mastery, as new skills are practiced and immediate results are experienced.

The inner journey of addiction/alcoholism recovery challenges each individual to daily self-awareness. However, many people struggling to achieve early recovery have never been given proper tools for the inner journey, and are consequently likely to lapse or re-lapse. Innercare Services International Inc. is committed to leading professionals with addictions issues, through a powerful retreat process that will place them firmly on the road of early recovery, providing them with sophisticated tools that can sustain them for a lifetime of abstinence and sobriety."

Thanks for reading,

Brian

Psychotherapy is growing In China!

2011-01-20T23:19:00.004-08:00

Hi All,

I recently ready a stimulating article in the 'New Yorker' of the growing interest in analysis/psychotherapy in China.

I find this to be a wonderful opportunity for dialogue between the Western world and China. It can hopefully enrich both, and provide deeper insights into the uses of therapy within other cultures.

That being said, I'd welcome any links/comments with Chinese people who are interested in psychotherapy and wanted to know more about my experiential approach.

Although I tend to focus on addiction/alcohol....my psychotherapeutic views then refocus on the deeper narrative / wounding ... therefore trauma, losses and depression etc. emerge as underpinning issues that must be addressed.

My site is: www.innercare.org

Peace,

Brian

info@innercare.org

My initial 2011 post - Addiction Articles

2011-01-05T10:54:00.003-08:00

Hello,

I've been unavailable to blog over the last few moths due to work commitments.

However, I have been writing many articles that can be accessed on my web site:

these cover a range of addiction related topics to educate and offer hope.

I am happy to chat to anyone who needs advice, or is interested in my intensive retreats for a range of addictions or other issues {e.g. trauma, depression and marriage issues etc}.

I will post more video blogs a.s.a.p.

Till then please check out the articles mentioned, I'm sure they will be insightful.

Peace,

Brian

info@innercare.org

www.innercare.org

1-778-823-1164

Addiction & Alcoholism - 10 days to change your life!

2010-08-16T11:35:00.003-07:00

“Welcome to innercare!

My name is Brian, I am the director and originator of our program.

The typical length of stay is 10 days... this is designed for professionals who can only take a certain amount of time out of their work life... they don’t have 28 days and they certainly don’t have 3 months! Nor is any of that necessary!

Our program is very intensive... we have 5,6, or 7 hours of psychotherapy / meditation per day. It is very impact-full it creates a very deep and abiding... lasting change that is not achievable by any other program that I know of! It has come thru my 25 + years as a director of many clinics/rehabs throughout the world... we now offer this alternative to rehab.

Once again I’d like to say that if you have any questions then email or call us.

Thank you!”

www.innercare.org

Why a retreat for addictions?

2010-08-10T16:18:00.005-07:00

I advocate a Retreat format as an alternative to rehab... as in my 25 yrs in the addictions field and 14 yrs as a Monk/professional Spiritual adviser I have come to this conclusion. Unfortunately the word retreat is widely used for less serious activities.

Well retreats... formal spiritual retreats create an ideal environment for healing:

SILENCE... clears the mind from negative or addictive thinking;
MEDITATION... disciplines the individual to let go into a deep spiritual purification process that is both ancient and highly effective;
ALONENESS... solitude fosters a deeper relationship with oneself and allows the client to face feelings that are usually distracted from or repressed... such as loneliness, fear, depression.
PSYCHOTHERAPY... this is the idea space for psychotherapy as it allows for extended multiples daily schedules that have a cumulative effect.

let me know you thoughts,

Peace,

Brian

www.innercare.org

info@innercare.org

1-778-823-1164

Addiction retreats info

2010-07-11T14:47:00.005-07:00

Due to the high demand for the addiction retreats we provide I have limited time to blog... so below you will see some program info taken from the brochure.

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGES

MY REFLECTIONS... HEALING THE ADDICTED SOUL

2010-03-21T22:12:00.008-07:00

Sorry not to post for a while...been very busy running our' intensive Addiction retreats' and re-locating our business to the beautiful coast of British Columbia... so here is a sample of my thinking.

Here are a few key points in my thinking:

the persistent focus on the inner world of the addicted person... to create deep and lasting change... avoiding the disaster of relapse etc.
powerful interventions are needed: meditation, Art, Psychotherapy.
the training and practice needed to achieve a high skill level is critical... Psychotherapy [not counseling!] needs formal university training... Meditation takes over a decade of serious practice {i.e. hours per day under a Senior instructor} to 'learn' to be an effective guide to others.

Don't hesitate to contact me for any serious advice.

Peace,
Brian

www.innercare.org
Cell for immediate Retreat inquiry/assistance: 1-778-823-1164

PROJECTION - BLOCKS TO RECOVERY CONTIN..

2010-01-12T18:15:00.004-08:00

As we begin the New yr. I want to re-focus on the 'blocks to recovery' theme that I began in the early winter.
Today's video looks at the issue of projection!

Peace,
Brian
www.innercare.org
info@innercare.org

Christmas greeting

2009-12-23T12:17:00.003-08:00

Click image to enlarge

Wishing all bloggers and followers a peace filled Christmastide!

Blocks to recovery continued...

2009-12-08T21:45:00.005-08:00

Sorry folks to not blog for some time!
I've been ultra busy running Addiction retreats and I intend to publish updates over the next week looking at:

projection {unknowingly putting part of my inner self onto another and reacting} as a recovery issue;
somatic issues {emotional pain stored as physical pain} and its 'undoing';
confluence/merging {no boundaries} and the polarity of isolation and it's role in co-dependency/counter dependency.

I'll talk you thru my take on these recovery/healing traps and address solutions for each one.

Peace,
Brian

e. info@innercare.org
w. www.innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164

Blocks to recovery - Part 3.

2009-10-01T10:24:00.004-07:00

In the struggle to leave drink, drugs etc. behind the recovering person will be faced with trying to let go of 'old messages', negative thoughts, stinking thinking etc.

There are basically 3 approaches that can be taken here:

Reject the message... even if it is a healthy message! So, the recovering person cannot take in any help or valid information etc.
Introject the message... this is 'swallowing hook line and sinker'! Here there is no discrimination or thought taken about the message/thought/belief... it is simply internalized in an unreflected manner.
Reflection on the message/though/belief... this allows for a kind of chewing over the issue to see if it will work for the person and their recovery. This is obviously the healthy option.

This distorted thinking process is behind all addictions and compulsions need to be unpicked in the early recovery process. This is a kind of detoxification process from unhealthy thinking... it requires much reflection and new tools... Cognitive therapies and Gestalt therapy have much to offer here.

Let me know if you need any advice.
Peace,
Brian

1-604-746-1164
Innercare Services International Inc.
Based in British Columbia... serving the world!

blocks to recovery - part 2.

2009-09-19T20:04:00.004-07:00

In early recovery form addictions the addict/alcoholic is faced with emerging thoughts and feelings as well as the challenge of interpersonal relations…there are a variety of reactions such as:
[click image on left to enlarge]

The healthy option is to stay focused and aware of whatever is emerging.

There are typically two other unhealthy paths:
• Being rude… to distance people who might `get too close` and further threaten any addictive process.
• Deflecting … getting completely off the topic to avoid any helpful dialogue.
In the therapeutic process the recovering person is guided toward remaining in a state of awareness in order to learn to face the issues at hand… rather than numb them out via drink, drugs, food, sex, gambling etc.
Let me know your thoughts

Peace,
Brian

info@innercare.org

blocks to recovery - part 1.

2009-09-04T00:17:00.006-07:00

In early recovery from addictions the addict/alcoholic is faced with the thaw of long repressed feelings… there are a variety of reactions such as:

Numbing;
Sensation;
Fragmentation.

Click to enlarge image on left

The healthy option is clearly to remain aware of emerging sensations without shutting down or becoming overwhelmed … possible leading to Hyperventilation, Panic etc. In this early stage there is the task of staying with sensation until they grow into an emotional state when they can then be fully felt etc. Obviously there needs to be enough therapeutic support and guidance to enable the person in early recovery to stay with emerging sensation and emotion without using or drinking, gambling etc.

Let me know your thoughts.

Peace,

Brian

info@innercare.org
Innercare Services International Inc.

Missing a piece of the inner puzzle?

2009-08-10T17:10:00.005-07:00

Many of our clients are simply looking for a 'missing piece of the puzzle".
They are deeply unhappy and are looking for peace, or are seeking to find out what lies deep within that needs identified and healed, in order for them to lead a fuller life... addiction free and have sound mental health.

But, these missing pieces are an accumulation of years of ignoring facing the tough existential questions:

Who really am I? ...Beyond my addiction/roles/current knowledge?
What is love?... not narcissism! nor counter or codependency... the very essence of love?
What is life itself... it's truth? etc.

Psychotherapy and spiritual advisers are the professionals who can help resolve these essential questions in the search for meaning in life /recovery. I offer intensive retreats as an alternative to rehab to fast track or deepen recovery and healing.

Blog, call or email me if you need any other info.

Peace,
Brian
e. info@innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164 or 1163
w. www.innercare.org

Can a spiritual practice really help in addiction recovery?

2009-07-22T23:56:00.003-07:00

There are many benefits to the spiritual practice of Meditation. Chiefly it acts as the ideal relapse prevention tool as it connects you to you higher power and higher self.

As a former Monk I can confidently say that these are 10 good reasons to Meditate:
i. It will tend to get you out of your own self-focused ego awareness.
ii. It will open you help from other levels!
iii. It will relax, re-focus and naturally refresh you;
iv. It teaches grounding skills… centering you;
v. It lets you trust a process of emptying and letting go;
vi. It pushes you to take responsibility for your own spiritual growth by doing what you can… i.e. practicing meditation!
vii. It lets you go from being to doing;
viii. It gives a sense of serenity when used as common practice;
ix. It teaches frustration tolerance and self-discipline;
x. It increases self-acceptance… reducing stress levels.

If you need any advice or want to chat about the many significant benefits of meditation then please contact me.

Peace,
Brian
1-604-746-1164 or 1163
info@innercare.org
www.innercare.org
Based in the Fraser Valley, near Vancouver… serving the rest of the world.

Reforming rehab?

2009-07-10T19:51:00.005-07:00

In order to address and reform the world of addictions there needs to be a real emphasis on getting to the core of the addiction & the person. This simply isn't possible with inadequate or poorly matched tools.... i.e. counseling is not designed to deal with acute underlying issues. That's a the role of Psychotherapy.

The 12 steps unfortunately are often done from the head... this simply doesn't work! At the heart of the steps is the 'higher power' issue. But, most addicted persons have significant blocks in their unconscious to a healthy higher power. So, by simply competing written exercises to 'work the steps', you merely bypass the unconscious and end up with a superficial spiritual process. This means that the recovery process is severely compromised.

As a former Monk and pastor I know, from my experience of spiritual direction, the skills that are required to get people thru dysfunctional images of 'God' ...these skills are acquired only after years of serious spiritual formation and discipline... this creates a person who is highly attuned to any spiritual energies and is well acquainted with the many blocks to inner growth... for example:

'God' the control freak;
'God' the avenger;
'God' the puppet master;
'God' the unrelenting perfectionist;
'God' the sadist......

Meditation is all the rage in the therapeutic world at present... and that's fine on one level but, once again there is a real need for some serious training by those who are guiding recovering person thru meditation.

My reflections are not intended as a severe judgement on the world of rehab ... they are an invitation to take spiritual formation of staff far far more seriously and seek the necessary outside help to do this, if need be.

Let me know you thoughts,
Peace,
Brian

info@innercare.org
www.innercare.org
Serving the world... from British Columbia, near Vancouver.

Alternatives to rehab!

2009-07-02T21:01:00.014-07:00

We live in a world messed up by a range of addictions:

Oxycontin;
gambling;
sex addiction....the list goes on and changes each month!

Despite the low success levels, the standard approach is for the family/doctor etc. to send the addicted person to 'rehab'. Well, that's one answer... but, surely there is room for other alternative approaches!?

As a former Director/founder of rehabs I have my own intensive 'retreats' that act as an alternative. There are others... a growing trend of alternatives... a new wave!
I'd very much welcome a dialog with other groups and therapists who offer sound alternative approaches.
click image to enlarge view

My approach is grounded in modern Psychotherapy and ancient Meditation.
Let's hear from others?... to see what they can offer the world at a time when celebrities are dying thru addiction... this is a dangerous cultural message! Our countries need hope! Hope that addiction can be healed / overcome.

Let me know your thoughts.

Peace,
Brian Innercare Services International Inc. Psychotherapy & Soul Care for Addictions!

click images below to view brochures

www.innercare.org

Supporting someone who is addicted?

2009-06-26T17:08:00.004-07:00

If you are supporting husband, wife, partner, friend or family member then it is vital you reach out for professional support. The problem….the addiction will simply not go away!
There will be a narrow window opportunity don’t delay... Addiction is life threatening!

You’re resources will lessen through the stress and confusion of trying to support the addicted person. The addicted mind is complex and tests all but the most experienced of professionals.

In my experience… it is unwise and counterproductive to 'shop around' getting what you think is the best bargain. Learn to ask the tough questions, go and visit if possible. There are professionals out there who really know what they are doing, you will need to find them.

I often hear complaints of how much money and time has been wasted through ineffective rehabs and callers are understandably angry! We simply don’t see rehabs as effective enough and this is the feedback we get from our callers!

By contrast we belong to what is emerging as a 'new wave' of alternatives to rehab!
The caller will at first sound hopeless and defeated. I want to leave them with a clear sense of HOPE! I have personally seen clients go thru a remarkable change in a very short space of time... finding inner peace for the first time!

Let me know your thoughts.

Peace,
Catherine

1-604-746-1164 or 1163
info@innercare.org
Innercare services International Inc.
Soul care - Psychotherapy & Meditation retreats for Addiction.

Is an Intervention needed for your family member?

2009-06-15T10:23:00.005-07:00

Are you supporting a loved one who is caught in the grip of addiction? This is a very demanding and emotionally exhausting role for you and your family!.. and, I’d strongly advise that you also seek professional assistance.

There are specialists: 'Interventionists' whose role is specifically to assist any family in bringing the addicted person to the point of accepting help by going to rehab.

We belong to a ‘new wave’ of services… we offer an alternative to rehab for busy motivated professionals who want to do get to the bottom of their addiction/s in a very short space of time {10 to 21 days}.

If you are struggling to support a loved one who’s addicted then put yourself in the hands of a trained interventionist… call/contact Catherine or myself if you need any other advice.

Or contact:
Association of Intervention specialists

The our preferred interventionist is James & Janice Dunn:1-250-714-0055

Peace,
Brian & Catherine

www.innercare.org
info@innercare.org
1-604-746-1164 or 1163

Based in B.C., Canada serving North America and the rest of the world!

Relpase prevention from addiction - continued

2009-06-08T16:39:00.005-07:00

In a proper RELAPSE PREVENTION therapy there are intervention strategies can be grouped into 3 categories:

Coping skills training: Coping skills training strategies include both action and thinking skills techniques;
Cognitive therapy: therapy procedures are designed to provide clients with ways to re-frame the habit change process as learning experience with errors and setbacks expected as mastery develops.
lifestyle modification: lifestyle modification strategies such as meditation, exercise, and spiritual practices are designed to strengthen a client's overall coping capacity.

The coping skills training forms the cornerstone of relapse prevention based therapy, teaching client’s strategies to: (a) understand relapse as a process; (b) identify and cope effectively with high-risk situations; (c) cope with urges and craving; (d) implement damage control procedures during a lapse to minimize its negative consequences; (e) stay engaged in therapy even after a lapse; (f) learn how to create a more balanced lifestyle.

Let me know if you need any advice etc.

Peace,

Brian

1-604-746-1164 www.innercare.org info@innercare.org

Based in British Columbia near Vancouver... serving the world!

Relpase prevention from addiction - continued

2009-06-02T23:07:00.006-07:00

Recovery involves facing a series of hard questions ... honestly and without dodging the need to change as a result of the answers:

Do wonder why you are Addicted?... what's really at the core of your wounded self?
Is there a nagging feeling that there might be a 'skeleton in the closet'...a forgotten trauma?
Do you have a nagging background feeling of anxiety for no know reason?
Do you slip or lapse after a few weeks and cannot understand the reasons for this pattern?

Psychotherapy and Spiritual guidance... in expert hands... will greatly assist you to resolve the above questions.
Let me know if you need any help finding an expert to help you or a loved one.
Peace,
Brian

1-604-746-1164 www.innercare.org info@innercare.org
Based in British Columbia near Vancouver... serving the world!

Relpase prevention from addiction - continued

2009-05-27T14:32:00.013-07:00

If you are struggling to stay clean and sober then you ought to seek professional assistance. As I mentioned in my former bog/s Psychotherapy is in my opinion one of the best resources for assistance.... here, briefly is why:

It cuts thru years of defenses quickly... whilst respecting their survival roles.
It gets to core issues that are at the heart of using and drinking;
It is the most sophisticated psychological tool we currently have to address a wide range of emotional and mental health issues.

Please get help if you are struggling with addiction or any other major life issue... even in a few sessions you could get a sense of hope! Although treatment takes longer, it's so much easier when those low moods don't dominate your existence {e.g depression, loneliness, hopelessness, chronic anxiety etc}.

Peace,

Brian

info@innercare.org 1-604-746-1164 www.innercare.org

{Brian is a former monk and director of rehab clinics,
who now spends his time facilitating intensive addiction retreats,
that blends Psychotherapy and Meditation.}

Based in the Fraser Valley near Vancouver... serving Canada and the rest of the world!

Relapse prevention?

2009-05-23T12:15:00.006-07:00

What are the typical issues you tend to relapse over?

Peer pressure to drink/drug?
Rows with your significant other?
Negative emotions {e.g. anger, shame, loneliness, depression, grief, despair, jealousy etc.}?

If you are somewhat aware of the triggers then you have the beginnings of a relapse prevention plan.

However, I would also add that in order for long-term remission from addictions to occur, and the person to be truly happy, the deeper/underlying reason must be explored. Psychotherapy is therefore the ideal tool for this purpose.

Unfortunately, Psychotherapists who are truly specialists in the addiction field are few and far between. This has left a gulf in the addiction field that counseling has tried to fill. The stats show a very low success rate for typical counseling based treatments. I'm not just trying to 'dis' counseling! It certainly has its place with less chronic/complex human issues.

As a director/founder/trouble-shooter in rehab clinics in several countries I have formed an opinion based on many years of experience in the addiction world.

So, my invitation to reader is to seek out an expert Psychotherapist.

My invitation to counselors is to re-train in Psychotherapy, or at least seek supervision from a Psychotherapist who will assist in helping you gain a 'psychotherapeutic' perspective.

Peace,

Brian

{A former Monk, Director of clinics and Psychotherapist who facilitates intensive addiction retreats as profound alternative to Rehab}.

1-604-746-1164

e. info@innercare.org

w. www.innercare.org

Recovery from sexual abuse- part two

2009-05-16T15:56:00.006-07:00

Addictions have causes! By that I mean that many people who have experienced early traumas are so wounded by them that they are likely to be vulnerable to addiction or depression etc.

In therapy or spiritual direction the client has to face their inner truth... they may have to face the awful truth that they are victims of sexual abuse. However, they now have a voice and this can become a truly empowering time for them! The victim becomes the survivor... who will continue to heal and thrive in life.

If you have been abuses or even suspect you have then please consider seeking professional help.

Peace,

Brian

e. info@innercare.org

w. www.innercare.org

p. 1-604-746-1164

Client's image in the healing process

Recovery from sexual abuse - part one

2009-05-08T14:00:00.005-07:00

In my many years as a psychotherapist and spiritual adviser I've encountered many brave souls who have faced the awful realization and memories of sexual abuse.
Telling their story and breaking the silence is clearly the first step. Many people have felt unable to share their painful stories with anyone... for a range of reasons:

You don't know how to express this pain;
You don't know what the reaction might be!
You've minimized the incident!
You don't want to make things worse;
You don't want to 'betray' the abuser;
You fear what others may do to the abuser if they told;
You still fear retribution from the abuser;
You don't know of others who have recovered and don't understand the stages of recovery;
You feel responsible and are controlled by guilt/shame;

Client art image: This picture shows a symbolic
vent/attack on the abuser to discharge rage!

If you have been abused then your human rights were violated!

I now focus on providing intensive retreats for a speedy healing solution to a range of human issues: addictions {all kinds}, abuse, trauma, depression, chronic grief etc.

Peace,
Brian

Based near Vancouver and serving Canada and the rest of the world.
e. info@innercare.org
w. www.innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164 {8 am - 9 pm P.S.T.}

Self-awareness in recovery - continued.

2009-05-01T22:27:00.004-07:00

Deep self-awareness is critical to any real attempts at recovery. This is the the secret hidden from many who have attempted to relay solely on self-help forums, to face the complexities of healing addictions.

I recall being quite shocked by a comment from a volunteer person who'd sat in a group therapy session I was offering in a rehab center... he said that in these workshops the fledgling recovering addicts were doing things that he had not done! He was 15 years clean /sober and was extremely well respected in the recovery world.

Both Meditation and Psychotherapy offer a depth perspective so vital for healing and sustained recovery.

Peace,
Brian
Please contact me for more info.
e. info@innercare.org
w. WWW.INNERCARE.ORG
p. 1-604-746-1164
Based in the Fraser Valley {near Vancovuer}... serving the world!

Self-awareness in recovery

2009-04-20T11:31:00.003-07:00

In order to properly ‘recover’ from any addiction there is a need to keep a sustained effort of ‘self-inquiry’. This self-inquiry must be taught in the recovery setting of choice, and this must be then applied to daily life. In order to develop in the recovery process recovery tools need to be practiced until they are second nature. In the event of being ‘caught’ in a high-risk situation it is imperative that the recovering person have a sound ability to exit the situation, and apply the necessary self-care…. applying the tools. I cannot imagine anyone pulling off the practice of recovery tools if there is only a basic knowledge and experience of them.
So, my message today is that it is an act of self-neglect to not have a daily practice of recovery tools… the outcome is at best a ‘slip’… and at worst death!

Problem # 1. Most self care tools that are taught are inadequate…they are not properly researched, and are simply borrowed from self-help models with no modifications.
Problem # 2. A lot of the focus in recovery settings is on finding external support rather than assisting the recovering person to focus on self-management. i.e. developing emotional intelligence. This leaves a person vulnerable when s/he cannot access support from others!
Problem # 3. Trauma {P.T.S.D. or sexual abuse issues} and co-dependency issues often surface soon after treatment, and some seriously thought out tools need to be taught to help manage and work thru these underlying problems.

I’ve spent years developing alternative approaches, as have a few others. Please contact me should you wish to explore these.

e. info@innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164
w. WWW.INNERCARE.ORG

Based in the Fraser valley, near Vancouver… serving Canada and the rest of the world!

An Easter message of hope!

2009-04-12T11:21:00.002-07:00

Today’s central mystery in the Christian faith reminds us of the need to allow a resurrection in our lives. Can we allow ourselves to be joined with Christ in his rising from death?

And overcome all forms of 'death':
• The ‘death’ of despair;
• The ‘death’ of alcoholism;
• The ‘death’ of drug addiction;
• The ‘death’ of smoking;
• The ‘death’ of chronic depression;
• The ‘death’ of being a victim of abuse;
• The ‘death’ of being a compulsive gambler;
• The ‘death’ of numerous moral wrongs done whilst under the influence;
• The ‘death’ of relationships lost thru active addiction;
• The ‘death’ of ourselves in addictions;
• The ‘death’ of ourselves in the sickness of co-dependency;
• The ‘death’ of hope in real and lasting change!

This is a free gift of grace... you simply have to ask!... in Mediation, prayer, desperation etc.

The beginnings of a ‘re-birth’ starts when we make a decision to reach out for help. This might be to a friend, a family member or pastor etc. Today offers significant hope!

Peace,

Brian

Mail: info@innercare.org
Web: www.innercare.org
Phone: 1-604-746-1164
Based in the Fraser Valley near Vancouver… serving the rest of the world!

A Good Friday Message to recovering persons

2009-04-09T22:35:00.003-07:00

A Good Friday Message to recovering persons:
Whether you’re a Christian or not, the Christian message pervades our North American cultures. Today is ‘Good Friday’… for Christians that means the God-Man Jesus sacrificed his life to atone for our sin! And what addict/alcoholic has not sinned! I’m not trying to make a moral issue out of addiction but there are some obvious ethical dimensions to recovery.
Today we remember the crucifixion of Jesus. Any recovering person be they gamblers, food addicts, love addicts, sex addicts, pill poppers whatever needs to follow Jesus’ example of allowing the ego to be crucified. As its only by letting go of our control, that our personalities can be transformed and resurrected. The crucifixion of the ego is of course very painful and many people avoid that and simply remain ‘dry drunks’… unhappy, bitter, struggling never to know their potential until they reach out for help.
In psychotherapy the addicted person is carried through their personal crucifixion by a compassionate witnessing therapist who provides ‘faith’ for their journey into their dark night. It takes a lot of courage to do this but the rebirth/resurrected personality is a joy for all to see. When we change the world around us changes!
Perhaps your recovery will start today with a crisis of conscience? You’ve violated your moral code, the things you swore you would never do you’ve done. Recovery is about admitting our guilt and moving on, not wallowing in self-pity or neurotic guilt. I invite you not this day nor this hour but in this moment to stop meditate/pray…recovery moves forward and our world is a better place!

I leave you with a quote from ‘The Cloud of Unknowing’… perhaps the most profound writing on meditation ever penned:
For in the beginning it is usual to feel nothing but a kind of darkness about your mind, or as it were, a cloud of unknowing. You will seem to know nothing and to feel nothing except a naked intent toward God in the depths of your being. (…) But learn to be at home in this darkness. Return to it as often as you can, letting your spirit cry out to Him whom you love. For if, in this life, you hope to feel and see God as He is in Himself, it must within this darkness and this cloud. P49 (…) by the work of contemplative love man will be healed. Failing in this work he sinks deeper into sin further and further from God, but by persevering in it he gradually rises from sin and grows in divine intimacy. P.50.
In Christ,
Brian
Innercare Services International Inc.
p. 1-604-746-1164
e. info@innercare.org
w. www.innercare.org

Based in the Fraser Valley near Vancouver… serving North America and the world!

Mid-life crisis? - part 4.

2009-04-02T10:15:00.008-07:00

If you seem to have lost your way in the many trials of life and are secretly wondering what's the way forward? Then you need to find a way to stop and take stock. This is the typical place of therapy... I mean psychotherapy. It can make all the difference, as you'll have a 'sacred' place where you can say whatever you need to say without judgment or condemnation. Therapy provides a psychologically safe space for clients.

However, the person seeking recovery has a few problems s/he needs to face:
Problem # 1. Most therapists have never truly specialized in addiction treatment!
Problem # 2. Therapy is usually a weekly meeting for only one hour.
Problem # 3. Any really good therapist has a waiting list! Sure, it's worth the wait if you can afford to! But, if your addictions are at a critical stage then you need immediate professional help.
Problem # 4. With addictions come serious moral and spiritual issues... this is not the proper remit of therapy... a highly experienced spiritual adviser is needed.

There seems to be few solutions to this dilemma. So, that's why I offer intensive therapy retreats!
This has come from 20 years experience directing clinics/rehabs, and 14 years spent as a Monk ans spiritual adviser.
Lately the actor and Oscar nominee/BAFTA winner Mickey Rourke spoke on T.V. of his need for both a psychotherapist and priest for his healing process... the result is there for all the world to see!
Please blog/call or email me if you need any advice.
Based in the Fraser Valley, near Vancouver... serving all Northern territories and the provinces of Canada and the rest of the world!
e. info@innerare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164
w. innercare.org

Mid-life crisis? - part three.

2009-03-28T11:58:00.004-07:00

Hello to all blog followers... and especially those new to my blog. A big hello to all in the North! {the Yukon/Whitehorse and North West Territories/Yellowknife}.

If after the initial decision to look for help for addiction you feel unsatisfied with all that you see in the addiction field, then perhaps you are able to know that you need to face the deeper issues {shame, abuse memories, loneliness, depression and anxiety etc} that underpin and exacerbate your addiction {i.e. drink, drugs, sex, gambling, food, codependency etc}. You know that at some level you want to get to the very depths of the issues in order to be free from compulsions and get on with a more meaningful life/career etc.

Sadly, the addiction world has focused chiefly on self-help models that are then bolted onto counseling. So, of you really are lost to yourself in a mid-life crisis there doesn't seem to be much truly effective help out there. I propose that you consider the following:

Psychotherapy;
and/or;
Spiritual guidance.

Infuriatingly unless you live in a city that has a good training institute/university then the options are limited. But, I really do believe that the effort is worth the search! After 20 years as a director of addiction clinics/rehabs I am convinced that Psychotherapy and Spiritual guidance are crucial to helping break the addiction cycle and lead people to new and productive lives. Put yourself in the hands on an expert in these fields and reap the rewards!
Suggested reading: Creating a life by James Hollis
Peace,
Brian
e. info@innercare.org
w. www.innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164
Based in the Fraser Valley near Vancouver, serving Canada and the rest of the world!

Mid-life crisis? - part two.

2009-03-24T19:15:00.006-07:00

After years of drinking or drugging the cost can be a person lost to himself or herself! The 'who' of the person has been lost or covered over by painful experiences, losses and traumas and so on. There is much confusions and no future path seems to present itself, or at least one that has any real meaning. The task of therapy is to aid the client to face the unresolved existential questions that have been avoided, and now have accumulated to the point that there is a real crisis.
As with any crisis there is new opportunity! This is a chance for a radically honest look at oneself and the opportunity to let got of addictions and the underlying causes... a chance to go into a new phase of life with new tools that will continue to support personal-development. The emotionally and spiritually unintelligent person will stumble about in the mid-life period, and continue to do so until there is help from the outside... this can be that a friend a therapist a pastor etc.
Psychotherapy offers a ‘sacred space’ where the client can unburden their soul, and sift thru a ravaged inner being with the expertise of a highly aware and emotionally attuned professional.
Some basic questions:

Are you lost?
Do you feel chronically empty inside?
Do you wonder what real meaning there is in life, and long for a more fulfilled existence?

Seek out an experienced and formally trained Psychotherapist who can work with addiction issues.
If you want any further advice then blog, call or email me:
e. info@innercare.org
w. www.innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164
Peace,
Brian
Based in the Fraser Valley, B.C. serving Canada and the rest of the world!

Mid-life crisis? - part one.

2009-03-20T13:44:00.013-07:00

If you are struggling with life and facing ADDICTIONS, burnout, depression, and chronic anxiety… and so on then you may be in a MID-LIFE CRISIS.
Most of my clients who come on our retreats are professionals who are in a classic mid-life crisis… consequently they are probably struggling to resolve a basic existential question: WHO AM I? The unfolding journey they take leads them thru dark and previously unknown recesses of their psyche / unconscious.

Much of this initial work involves exploring the body’s sense of knowing, as the body acts as a container for our life story. It captures memories and experiences that then have a lasting effect on the person, until they are given the spiritual and therapeutic care needed…This is truly soul care!

It's my opinion that dragging thru lots of old business is not the only valid approach, and can only lead to a more polished version of the person’s life story. I believe that there has to be a radical move beyond the person’s STORY, into a more spiritual vantage point. The ensuing wisdom and peace resolves most of the issues that many would invest a great deal of time trying to resolve, in standard therapy.

In my 20 years experience as a director of many clinics/rehabs there seems to be a crying need for others to offer intensive approaches and similar alternatives. HOWEVER, I would caution other therapists, by saying that it has taken all my experience and training to get to the point of being able to offer intensive retreats… so the real question is: are therapy professionals willing to invest at least a decade’s serious spiritual training before attempting to blend this with therapies?
Please call, blog or email me if you want to chat about any of the above, or similar topics.
Peace,
Brian
e. info@innercare.org
t. 1-604-826-1164
w. www.innercare.org
Based in the Fraser Valley, close to Vancouver... serving the world!

RECOVERY TOOLS - Part 4.

2009-03-16T23:51:00.005-07:00

This is the fourth and final blog on RECOVERY TOOLS. Please let me know if you want me to go into more depth and I'll post another series of blogs.
I've mentioned in the other blogs about the need to explore your inner-self thru various forms of meditation... if the scriptures are important to you, then you can either:

read them in an ancient meditative way {i.e. Lectio Divina};
use the scriptures to work a 12 Step program. There are a number of 12 step bibles or there are free online guides.
or, combine both... and even prep. for this with Mindfulness Meditation.

If you want a neutral approach... for whatever reasons... then please consider trying Mindfulness ... Here is a quick guide to Mindfulness Meditation:
1. Sit in a comfortable position... upright but relaxed.
2. Gently close your eyes.
3. Become ever more aware of the breath.
4. Allow you breathing to change from chest/lung breathing to belly breathing... allowing the stomach to fill up with air on the in-breath.
5. So letting go of all else [sounds, smells, memories etc] focus only on the breath... tracking it in thru the nostrils... circulation in the belly and being release thru the mouth.
6. Long slow deep breathing.
7. Ever more slowly; ever more deeply!
8. Keep this up for up to 20 min.
9. Take time to come into a normal state of awareness.

Let me know how you are doing... blog, email or call!

Peace,
Brian
p. 1-604-746-1164
e. info@innercare.org
w. www.innercare.org
Based in the Fraser Valley... serving the world!

RECOVERY TOOLS - Part 3.

2009-03-13T12:06:00.006-07:00

In this third blog on tools I'll focus briefly on the key benefits of Meditation for those who are recovering from: drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, co-dependency etc.This tool is not to be taken lightly! It is an ancient method that can be adapted to almost any belief system, and exists in some form or other in most religions.
I recommend that beginners start with a form called mindfulness meditation. Some of the main benefits are:

* The breath grounds in the NOW! Reducing stress and anxiety levels.
* Acceptance teaches us to experience without judgment.
* We can connect with feelings without being overwhelmed.
* Observing the ebb and flow of our thinking patterns, we learn how our mind works.

I strongly advise you to take time to try out meditation for at least a month before forming any opinion.
Please blog or email me if you want any further advice.

Peace,
Brian
1-604-746-1164
Innercare Services International Inc.
info@innercare.org
Based in Canada, serving the the world!

RECOVERY TOOLS - part 2.

2009-03-09T10:52:00.006-07:00

In a former role as a specialist interviewing clients who’d left rehab and failed, I’d always ask them the last time they had used any recovery tools… the answer was always “weeks ago… or months ago”. This is an act of self-neglect! It’s inevitable that the ‘inner saboteur’ will run riot if there is no ongoing self-check.

By contrast those who did well in recovery as seem to make wholehearted use of recovery tools! They appeared focused, happy and determined to face any obstacles to long-term abstinence. Some of the success cases used the 12 step meetings and some did not. From my perspective it comes down to how much work and self-care each person is prepared to put in!

Today id’ like to take a brief look at another basic tool: JOURNALING.
It has two approaches:

1. Unstructured… free writing to let go and loosen up the rigid and controlling ego. This involves writing without any censoring or judgment or pre-conceived themes. It is an excellent clearing away process and is a good preparation of other self-therapy.

2. Structured writing. There are lots of templates or headings for this and there are some software programs. The content is for you to do! The framework is perhaps:
• Cognitive therapy themes;
• 12 step themes;
• Scripture themes etc.

All of this helps to dismantle the limited perspective and control of the ego. In all major religions the purification of the ego is central to spiritual growth. It is our responsibility to find ways to do this by self-reflection. And, we can take our writing to our sponsor, therapist or group therapy etc. At the end of each year we can take time to acknowledge the personal and recovery growth thru this narrative process.

Call {1-604-746-1164} or blog me if you want any further tips on recovery tool and the process.

Peace,

Brian

info@innercare.org

Based in the Fraser Valley serving British Columbia/Alberta... and the rest of the world!

RECOVERY TOOLS - part 1.

2009-03-05T14:53:00.005-08:00

For the next 4 blogs I’ll be discussing recovery tools.

When we are thinking about addiction we have to talk about RECOVERY TOOLS. For the next few bogs I’ll focus on some of the best tools I’ve come across in my 20 years working as a director of clinics/rehabs.
Those in early recovery need tools! That being said, what tools am I talking about? Two key basic tools are:
1. JOURNALING;
2. MEDITATION.

Firstly, lets talk about MEDITATION, that age old approach that’s recently been revitalized and found it’s way into books on addiction. It’s become quite popular, but needs to be done seriously! Both of these tools need to be used at least once a day… preferably several times daily… food for the psyche – soul. That may seem like an awful lot of time but if you are looking for a quality of recovery or sustained recovery then you simply can’t just skip over useful tools and hope to get recovery by osmosis! … Trying to absorb it from those around you: in the rooms, therapy groups etc. In the beginning its hard work, but will pay off tenfold If you spend 10-20 min. a couple of times a day, it will obviously bring greater awareness; grounding … remaining in the present moment… reducing anxiety!

Many recovering people slip into depression and anxious states; here meditation is proven to help… research shows this to be so! Proper forms of meditation will pay off. You can also choose to join a meditation group. Makes sure the instructor has at least a decade of serious experience… then you will learn a lot from that. I can highly endorse meditation having seen the growth other recovering persons have made thru commitment to meditation classes.

Here’s a tip: find your own space in your house so that it become obvious that meditation is part of your lifestyle… thereby reinforcing the importance of ongoing meditation periods. It needs to be built into each day to keep any spiritual awakening alive. The key is: Awareness, awareness, awaress! Meditation will lead to ever-greater self-awareness = quality recovery!!

Reading sugestion: Full catastrophe living.

In my next blog I will give a few pointers on JOURNALING. Please blog, call or email me if you want any advice.

Peace,

Brian

Based in British Columbia... serving Canada and the world!

RECOVERY - WHAT'S THE POINT?

2009-03-02T00:13:00.008-08:00

Qu: So what’s the point of recovery?

Staying alive! Addiction is a slow form of suicide… not intended but very effective! Recovery involves being alive inside rather than compulsively numbing out! After the initial ‘thawing’ and working thru the early moods, new positive emotions emerge!
Relating to others: Opening up to the world around… rather than being closed off and avoidant. 'Walls' have been built up over the years to keep others away… that also keep those who may help you away too. This is a chance to take a risk and let the good stuff in!
Finding inner resources that have been buried beneath a pile of unfinished business!
Grieving all the losses and moving on in life… all losses can be worked thru in a recovery program… or even better – psychotherapy!
Realizing the dreams that have been long forgotten… all that creativity and giftedness. If you are recovering in a mid-life stage then it’s a perfect time to completely review all that has gone before and look ahead. Click here for Audio book suggestion
I’ve seen many; many recovering persons quickly emerge from the dark world of drugs and alcohol and go onto completely new lives. I’d include some ‘lucky’ extremely psychologically damaged persons in this too… often people who were written off by the psychiatric community! How is this possible? The only explanation I can give is that this is the work of higher being! All the more reason to check out some spiritual tools.

Peace,

Brian

Blog me or call and chat!

1-604-746-1164

www.innercare.org

From the Fraser Valley [near Vancouver]... serving the world!

Rehab and alternatives!

2009-02-27T09:13:00.014-08:00

Over the last 20 years I've been a director of the major kinds of rehab:
~ 12 step facilitation;
~ Therapeutic communities;
~ Christian rehabs;
~ C.B.T. based rehab.
Naturally I have my own take on what does and doesn't work! There are things that can very much improve outcomes. I'd say that the deeper you can go into the person then the more long term change is enabled. But, many centers have staff who are ill equipped for this task!

That's where Psychotherapy and Spiritual Direction wins hands down! Sadly, many well known therapists make no bones about avoiding seeing addicted patients in private practice. If you can find a skilled therapist then pay the money!

In the field of spiritual direction most experts have little experience with those new to recovery... yet, S.D. has so much to offer!

Nowadays I offer an alternative approach to all other forms of addiction treatment... combining Meditation and Psychotherapy.

Want any more advice? Call me for a chat: 1-604-746-1164
Based in the Fraser Valley, B.C. ... serving the world!

Peace,

Brian

Quality of recovery: The 'dry drunk' issue!

2009-02-24T08:23:00.004-08:00

What’s your quality of recovery?
This is a key point for any recovering person to face… and even more difficult if you have months or even years of ‘sober-time’!

The question I pose is: ‘what is the quality of your recovery?’ The bottom line is that if you really are dry dunk then you are not far from a slip/binge/relapse! I’m afraid there is way too much focus on time in recovery, and not enough on what’s really going on inside the person.

Common Symptoms of dry drunk syndrome:
Arrogant;
Very judgmental;
Impatient;
Child like behavior;
Irresponsible actions;
Irrational thoughts;
Blames others;
Over the top reactions.

If you are supporting a loved one then try to let them know that their recovery and quality of life can be greatly enhanced by more therapy or spiritual guidance.

I see a lot of people who have been in the fellowships for some time and yet do not have a real handle on recovery… they are struggling and know they need more help. For instance: if you don’t have a real spiritual connection or practice, then there’s something lacking in your recovery or attempts at recovery . That’s the beginning of a truly honest look inside. If you are working with any gifted psychotherapist &/or pastor then you’ll be looking at the deepest parts of yourself.

Suggested books: Mindful Recovery: A Spiritual Path to Healing from Addiction; Addiction & Grace.

Call, blog or email if you want advice or are supporting a loved one.

Peace,
Brian

T. 1-604-746-1164
E. info@innercare.org
W. innercare.org

WHY MEDITATION IS SO HELPFUL

2009-02-18T21:45:00.004-08:00

Why meditation helps
Meditation has been around for many thousands years and has some key in-built healing properties. Since addicts and alcoholics are desperately in need of both healing and a spiritual resource, meditation seems to be an ideal fit!

Why meditation is useful:
• Want a way to manage your moods?
• Do you want to learn a radical form of self-acceptance?
• Do you want to find a way to manage depression, stress and anxiety?
• Do you need a daily spiritual boost to get clean/sober or develop recovery?
• Do you suffer from co-dependency and want a simple tool to assist your recovery?

If any of the above are needed then please consider a suitable form of meditation:
[i.] A secularly acceptable form is mindfulness… it’s exceedingly easy to learn, and has numerous physical and emotional benefits… proven by research!
[ii.] If you are a Christian you might want to try the ancient method of sacred reading {lectio divina}… or a more contemporary version: centering prayer.

I’m not saying that recovery is simply a matter of an occasional practice of meditation… it takes daily practice! However, I have known many recovering persons to say that learning meditation was the most significant part of the recovery puzzle!

I am a former monk and currently spiritual advisor/psychotherapist. Let me know your thoughts in this blog or email/call me.

Peace,
Brian
e. info@innercare.org
p. 1-604-746-1164

w. www.innercare.org

Recovering Catholic - Christian?

2009-02-13T09:52:00.005-08:00

ARE YOU A ‘RECOVERING CATHOLIC’ or ‘RECOVERING CHRISTIAN’?

If an experience of a church wounded you then you probably qualify!
Fortunately, we live in an age that is more open and less in denial to the reality of spiritual abuse. Sadly, many people have had harsh or abusive words said to them by Priests/pastors… not exactly a portrayal of Christ! In most peoples' view Jesus sided with the emotionally broken person, and extended both healing and compassionate guidance.

So what exactly are you left with? Distorted images of God and:
• SHAME
• RESENTMENT
• SPIRITUAL ALIENATION
• MEANINGLESSNESS
• LONGING FOR SOME KIND OF LOVING GOD

All of the above affect those who are trying to recover from drugs/alcohol… and everyone else too! Many therapists face the challenge of tending to wounded souls… Psychotherapy roughly translated means: ‘care of the soul’.
But, I suspect most therapists struggle with ‘spiritual abuse’ as an issue in therapy. Especially if the client desires to continue their Christian journey.
In my experience it is an amazing liberation for people to work-thru their spiritual wounds.

Protestant-Evangelical Churches are not exempt from the above! Punitive, controlling, perfectionistic images of ‘God’ abound in those who have been hurt by negative elements in these churches.

I do want to emphasize that most people attending churches have a very good experience of church, and find worship extremely helpful and healing.

I am a former Catholic monk and continue to assist those who want to heal and continue their Christian journey and those who feel betrayed by the church and need to find other spiritual practices.

Suggested reading: Care of the soul or Dark nights of the soul.

Let me know if you are a recovering Christian… all sincere comments welcome.

Peace,
Brian
e. http://www.innercare.org/

p. 1-604-746-1164

the depression - addiction link

2009-02-10T08:29:00.004-08:00

Is depression the underlying factor in your addiction?
If so then there are a number of things you can do assist your recovery from depression, and learn tools to avoid relapses into depression.
Lately mindfulness meditation has been widely used to treat depression. It’s very easy to learn and there are lots of resources… some of them free.... search i-tunes podcasts. You can learn the basics in only a few minutes… the rest is practice! It has a wonderfully calming effect and is a basic tool for any recovering person:
• Drug addiction
• Co-dependency
• Alcoholism
• Eating disorders
• Gambling
• Sex addiction etc.
Let me know how you get on… please blog me or email [info@innercare.org] for any advice or comments.
Innercare offers a specialized addictions service providing private retreats to professionals in a discreet setting in British Columbia, close to the U.S. border.
We offer intensive retreats [ 14- 21 day] that focus on leading individuals thru a life changing series of unique meditations.
Peace,
Brian & Catherine
Innercare Services International Inc.
1-604-746-1164

Hope!

2009-02-07T12:50:00.002-08:00

You need hope for recovery, or any therapy process.

HOPE need to be instilled early on to enable the recovery journey to go on!

This may be difficult to her especially if you are depressed... but, please persist and reach out for help!

At INNERCARE INC. we guide people thru early recovery and give a deep sense of hope thru spiritual development... by leading them thru a series of unique meditations.

See our video on youtube ... hopefully this will give you our message of hope!

Please email us

Or, blog here;

Or, have a confidential chat: 1-604-746-1164

Brian & Catherine

THE COURAGE TO HEAL

2009-02-03T18:20:00.003-08:00

Any person who is truly trying to face recovery or recover from alcoholism or drug addiction needs to have the courage to face the underlying issues that:

Are at the roots of addictions and have led to the need to cover over these traumas/losses with chemicals.
Make day to day issues more stressful as they live in the 'back grounds' of the mind and take up so much psychological space which:

diminishes quality of life;
is a trigger or part of a trigger enables the use of more drink/drugs etc.

Please call make contact if you need support to manage the pain inside!

1-604-746-1164

INNERCARE.ORG

What causes Addictions?

2009-01-27T10:41:00.003-08:00

If you are trying to stop/recover or assisting a loved one, then please consider the following:

Addictions don't just develop!.. They are a result of trying to NUMB out DEEP EMOTIONAL PAIN! For example:

TRAUMAS that have devastated the inner world of the person leaving them prone to alcoholism or drug addictions or sexual addiction etc. for info see amazon books
GRIEF and losses of all kinds... for reading see Hazleden books
ABUSES that are physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.

If you are looking an alternative approach that targets the deepest levels of the person,

to tend to the ROOTS OF ADDICTIONS then call INNERCARE 1-604-746-1164

Please call or chat any time.

Peace,

Brian

THINKING ABOUT QUITTING?

2009-01-12T12:06:00.002-08:00

ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT STOPPING DRINKING OR DRUGGING?

Your may have begun to look around at the range of treatment for addictions, and have noticed that we offer an entirely new approach... blending deep MEDITATION & PSYCHOTHERAPY.

Please view the video on our home page to get a quick overview: www.innercare.org

Our approach offers deep change and goes far beyond the expectations of standard treatment! We have combined the best of ancient healing with modern therapy to intensify and shorten the addictions healing process.

Peace,

Brian & Catherine

1-604-746-1164

A NEW YEAR MESSAGE

2009-01-02T14:57:00.001-08:00

A NEW YEAR MESSAGE

The following quote from a medieval Meditation guide suitably
expresses Innercareʼs aim and unique method – ʻthe break-thru”:

14th. Century spiritual text

“Your whole personality will be transformed; your countenance will radiate an

inner beauty, and for as long as you feel it nothing will sadden you. A thousand

miles would you run to speak with another who you knew really felt it, and yet

when you got there, ﬁnd yourself speechless. (...) Your words will be few, but so

fruitful and full of ﬁre that the little you say will hold a world of wisdom (though it

may seem nonsense to those still unable to transcend the limits of reason). Your

silence will be peaceful, your speech helpful, and your prayer secret in the depths

of your being. Your self-esteem will be natural and unspoiled by conceit, your

way with others gentle, and your laughter merry, as you take delight in everything

with the joy of a child.”

The Book of Privy Counsel - for additional reading see Amazon books

WWW.INNERCARE.ORG

Emotional intelligence

2008-12-16T14:08:00.001-08:00

How much are you in touch with our feelings?
The reason I ask is that most relapses are due to the inability to cope with 'downers'... 'negative emotions'. Research has confirmed that alcoholics and addicts don't do well at all with these emotions.
My role is to teach recovering persons to be alongside painful emotions in a non-judgmental way. It's a philosophy of self-acceptance. This creates a new attitude to emerging feelings and moves the recovering person from fear and instant reactions, toward tolerance discomfort without seeking to use drink/drugs.

Suggested reading: Emotional intelligence

Peace,
Brian
www.innercare.org
1-604-746-1164

Can you look inside yourself?

2008-12-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

What happens if you look within?

Are you able to look deep inside?...
or do you immediately feel the need to numb this out or deflect from this basic task.

The reason I ask is that being fearful of what lies inside is a cause of so much of the stress that leads to lapses or relapses. The payoff in a regular self-examination is that there is an appropriate sense of control over our inner worlds... this gives both relief and hope!

Innercare Services Int`l Inc. seeks to teach self care skills that can assist addicts - alcoholics in their long term recovery.

Peace,
Brian
www.innercare.org
1-604-746-1164

A 'million dollar' question?

2008-11-24T15:47:00.000-08:00

I would like to bring up the the issue of 'quality of recovery' ... a seldom discussed issue!
I mostly hear talk in the addictions world of time in recovery.
However, I think that only by looking at the real quality of recovery and life the addict/alcoholic has, can we truly gauge what has/is achieved!

Surely this is a 'million dollar' question that deserves a reply?

Peace,
Brian

innercare.org

Our skills for relapse prevention

2008-11-24T15:35:00.000-08:00

Innercare's perspective: In terms of relapse prevention the skills taught in our meditations and art allow a deep inquiry into the person to made as regularly as needed... obviously the more often the better! Thereby allowing any of our clients to continue what has been achieved when they return to their regular lives.

Any thoughts?
Peace,
Brian
Innercare.org

Art & Soul!

2008-11-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

How can art be a key tool in the the 'life and death struggle' for long-term recovery?
In my extensive experience, with assisting alcoholics & addicts in early recovery, it is a profound way to get inside the person... easily. I haven't seen a more useful tool in my 20+ yrs in the addiction world! That being said any top notch therapist ought to be able to 'see' inside the client intuitively or using a spiritual gift.
I know that the art created by recovering persons can become a connecting bridge to the outside world... it can educate those who do not understand the tremendous inner suffering of the addict/alcoholic. I have been privileged to present sideshows to large audiences, and this has always been extremely well received!
Hope this helps!?...blog me or email: info@innercare.org
peace,
Brian

2008-10-14T21:06:00.001-07:00

How the 12 steps can improve

The '12 steps' now dominate Rehab! As former Director of a 12 step center I want to make a few brief comments on how to improve the way the step are used in a professional forum.

The steps 'tend' to be approached as a mental exercise... yet, that majority of 'relapses' are triggered by a lack of ability to cope with negative emotional states. It seems obvious that any formal psychotherapy that helps both emotional expression & containment is very valuable!
Since the heart of the steps is search for a 'higher power' it seems sensible to make use of more established spiritual methods {e.g. formal meditation, 'transpersonal' therapy etc.}

What are your thoughts and experiences?
Peace,
Brian

God - spirituality in healing addictions?

2008-08-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

I was a monk for many years and have more recently been a specialist Director/Therapist in Rehabs and private practice. The wounds of addiction run so deep in the person that needs a deeper belief and spiritual practice to heal....So:

They will have huge amounts of guilt over things they've done in active addiction!
They will need to find strength from somewhere else to beat the cravings etc.
They need to change themselves and live by new standards... contributing to their world. They need to learn to self-accept... spirituality aids this.

But, a 'real' spiritual discipline needs to be established in order to secure 'long-term recovery'... by 'real' I mean one that is challenging and requires guidance in order to grow... also the influence of psychotherapy in modern spirituality has helped understand some of this process... so a guide can 'measure' health/quality of recovery too!

what's wrong with rehab?

2008-08-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

Standard Rehab lacks both clinical and spiritual depth... It follows a model ill suited to counseling - 12 steps... and counseling is more often than not inadequate to cope with the severe traumas etc. that addicts have.
Surely more genuine spiritual models offer a viable alternative to cope with addiction.
Sadly we are one of the few orgs. that offer an alternative that's backed up by years of experience at advanced levels of 'soul-care'. [see www.innercare.org] ... check it out!