Growing up in East Harlem the peer-pressure to smoke marijuana, do drugs and drink alcohol was tremendous, and the “try it, you’ll like it” attitude remains a mystery to me. Unfortunately, pot smokers, excessive drinkers and those who suffer from addiction abound, but it doesn’t stop me from mentoring, providing support or being a Recovery Coach to those who seek to make a positive, healthy change.

There’s no proof that someone suffering from alcoholism or drug addiction can’t learn and get better from someone who has little or no substance abuse history. Several Recovery Coaches were not addicts, but are more than capable of working with those who suffer from addiction merely by listening.

Although coaches are not all addiction counselors, they identify with the addict’s source of emotional pain, (the reason for the addiction) and drawing a positive map for their road to recovery. Providing receptive ears, direction and support the coach leads the person suffering from alcoholism and or drug addiction to resources that provide recovery.

Do you think only a former addict can help a current one kick the habit? Why or why not?

Do you think someone who has never suffered from addiction, but has a compassionate ear, and a positive voice can help move to Recovery Road?