What are Families Anonymous Meetings?

families anonymous meetings

When a person is addicted to drugs, they are not only hurting themselves; they are hurting those around them. Their families and loved ones must learn how to deal with the person who is addicted to ensure their own mental health is not negatively affected. They must also think of the best ways to get their loved ones the help they need. 

Because addiction hurts families, they are often included in the therapy process. Families are brought in to help their relatives cope with their dependency issues, and they are provided with advice to aid their own wellbeing. 

However, there are times when the loved one refuses to get help. In these instances, friends and relatives will still need assistance to get by. Families Anonymous meetings are ideal because people can attend any time they require support. 

This article will provide information on Families Anonymous meetings and how they can provide families with support during dark times.  

What are Families Anonymous Meetings?

Families Anonymous Meetings are free group meetings that are available to the families of people dealing with dependency issues. They are meant to offer support to parents, grandparents, spouses, siblings, significant others, other family members, and friends of people who are dealing or have dealt with drug and alcohol addiction. They offer relief from feelings of anxiety and depression caused by witnessing a loved one engage in destructive behavior associated with addiction. 

Like Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings, Families Anonymous Meetings are based on twelve steps to healing from addiction. They focus on twelve traditions to be integrated into the healing process. They educate families about drug abuse and introduce the concept of the four destructive forces that can get in the way of recovery. 

Families who participate in meetings may remain anonymous.

While Families Anonymous is typically offered in an in-person format, video conference meetings are available during the pandemic. 

Why It’s Important for Parents of Addicts to Get Help Themselves

When a loved one is dealing with addiction, it can negatively affect the mental health of the people they are close with. It is distressing to watch them suffer and throw away their lives. They may also lie and steal from their family and friends, which can take an emotional toll and be a financial burden. 

Furthermore, it’s essential to know how to communicate with an addict in terms of helping them recover. You should be nonjudgmental and speak to them in a caring manner. If they refuse to get help, consider breaking ties with them. The hope is that they will reach rock bottom and be forced to seek out the care they need. 

How the Adolescent Wellness Academy Can Help

It is especially painful for parents to see their children struggle with addiction. The Adolescent Wellness Academy offers services that aid with teen recovery. 

The Adolescent Wellness Academy understands the struggles teens are going through. We take an approach that is suited to their age group and developmental level. We provide customized and innovative therapies that help teens overcome addiction and its underlying causes. 

Treatment at the Adolescent Wellness Academy is convenient for teens and parents. We offer an after-school program that includes transport from school and back home. Our early treatment ensures patients are on the right path when it comes to maintaining sobriety throughout their lives. 

If you are dealing with a loved one who is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Families Anonymous can provide you with the support you need, while Adolescent Wellness Academy offers therapy to teens to overcome drug dependency issues. The combined services will get your family on a trajectory for happier, healthier living.

Discover how our judgment-free, evidence-based care can support your teen mental health and your family

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Melanie Medrano – Therapist

Melanie has a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their paths to self-discovery and healing. Equipped with a diverse skill set, Melanie has received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. 

At the heart of Melanie’s therapeutic approach is a desire to provide clients with a safe, nurturing space where they can empower themselves with the tools necessary to navigate life’s complexities. Melanie finds joy in witnessing clients emerge from challenging circumstances, stepping into the light from what once felt like a dark place.  

Cristina Arango – Clinical Supervisor

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Benjamin Ziegler LMFT – Therapist

With a heart for guiding families through challenges and fostering connections, Benjamin is committed to creating a therapeutic space where each family member feels heard, understood, and supported. His genuine enthusiasm for helping families thrive is a driving force in his approach.

Benjamin is highly qualified professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). He also has a certification in narrative therapy, where he skillfully utilizes storytelling to empower individuals and families on their mental health journey, guiding them to reshape their narratives and discover fresh perspectives.  

Celanie Chenet – Therapist

Celanie is a mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Celanie is dedicated to providing supportive care through various modalities and has a robust background in trauma-informed care, Living in Balance, and Protective Action Response.

Celanie’s primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a specialization in Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Brief Solution-focused therapy (BSF). With a commitment to helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve positive outcomes, Celanie brings a wealth of expertise and a caring approach to the therapeutic process.   

Michael Panzeca – Program Manager

Michael has +40 years of experience dedicated to the field of mental health and addiction. He has played a crucial role in developing programs for various nationally recognized treatment centers in the US and in the creation of the Adolescent Wellness Academy. Alongside his expertise, Michael adds a touch of creativity and humor to program design, drawing from his side profession as a stand-up comedian.

Michael passionate about working with parents and teens. He connects with them in a deeper level, able to be candid and compassionate at the same time.

Michael is a Certified Addiction Counselor from the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium. He’s also trained in Gestalt Therapy and has a certification from The Cincinnati Gestalt Institute.  

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky – Medical Director

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky is a board-certified psychiatrist and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Facultad De Ciencias Medicas/Universidad Nacional. He is affiliated with medical facilities North Shore Medical Center.  

Jenn Jacoby LMHC – Clinical Director

Jenn is a highly qualified mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Jenn is not only a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) but also holds certification in Child and Family Studies.

Jenn’s extensive training includes being a Certified Trainer by DJJ for Trauma Responsive and Caring Environment, expertise in Aggression Replacement Training (ART), Impact of Crime, Thinking for a Change, Living in Balance, Cannabis Youth Treatment, Coping with Stress: A CBT Program for Teens with Trauma, Adolescents Coping with Depression, Motivational Interviewing, Protective Action Response, and being a Certified Peer Reviewer for Monitoring and Quality Improvement (MQI).

 In terms of modalities, Jenn is proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-focused therapy, Strength-based therapy, Narrative therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. With Jenn’s diverse skill set and commitment to professional development, she brings a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental health counseling.