What if the path to helping a loved one through addiction begins with understanding your own role in the family?

On this episode of CARES Podcast, René Gaitan welcomes Professor Mayan Herman, a licensed clinical social worker and clinical assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin's School of Social Work, to explore how addiction affects the entire family.

Mayan explains how family dynamics, childhood experiences, and enabling behaviors can influence addiction. She introduces the drama triangle, explores the importance of setting healthy boundaries, and shares how motivational interviewing can help families navigate difficult conversations without pushing their loved ones before they're ready for change.

The conversation also highlights the importance of preparation, support groups, and learning to tolerate discomfort throughout the recovery process. Most importantly, Mayan reminds listeners that protecting yourself isn't selfish, even when it brings feelings of guilt or shame.

In this episode, René and Mayan will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Addiction and Family Dynamics

(03:04) Understanding Family Roles in Addiction

(05:48) The Concept of Family Disease

(09:02) Navigating Family Conversations about Addiction

(12:12) The Role of Enabling in Addiction

(15:02) The Drama Triangle in Addictive Families

(17:54) Finding Healing and Setting Boundaries

(21:18) Understanding the Drama Triangle and Boundaries

(23:45) The Importance of Preparation in Change

(25:43) Navigating Family Dynamics and Emotional Impact

(27:59) Motivational Interviewing: A Path to Change

(30:11) Exploring the Stages of Change

(32:53) Practical Applications of Motivational Interviewing

(35:51) Resources for Families and Individuals

(39:38) Protecting Yourself in Family Dynamics

Mayan Herman, LCSW-S, is a clinical assistant professor who teaches BSW and MSSW courses and serves as a practicum liaison for BSW and MSW students. With experience as a therapist, bilingual medical and school social worker, and caseworker for children with disabilities, she also has a background in addiction treatment. Mayan is passionate about addiction education and neuroscience and provides clinical supervision and consultation. She completed her BSW practicum at CPS in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and earned her MSW from the University of Michigan.

Connect with Mayan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayan-herman-3aa853102/

Connect with CARES:

Website: https://carescommunity.us/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecarescommunity

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cares-community-6552b63a5/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2LUyL5oNMwOUdsn95o4Bah