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In Actualized Recovery, Dave and Susan Kenney emphasize the crucial role psychology plays in addiction recovery and mental health. Their brain-first approach addresses both the mind and the body, recognizing that true recovery comes from understanding the intricate relationship between the two. They expertly illustrate how the mind acts as the software of the brain, guiding how individuals think, feel, and ultimately behave.
This principle is a cornerstone of their method, helping countless individuals break free from the destructive cycles of addiction and mental distress.
Understanding the Mind and Brain
Psychology is often described as the scientific study of the mind and behavior. As Co-founders of Emergo Dave and Susan Kenney explain, the mind and brain, while interconnected, are distinct entities. The brain is the physical organ, constantly changing and adapting to new experiences, while the mind is responsible for processing thoughts, emotions, and choices.
This distinction is critical to recovery. As Dave Kenney states, “Your mind is always listening. It’s always shaping your brain, which means your thoughts and choices directly influence your life. Understanding this gives you the power to create lasting change.”
Recognizing that the mind can reshape the brain through thought and choice, empowers individuals to take control of their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Logotherapy: Finding Meaning in Life
A key psychological approach used by Dave and Susan Kenney is logotherapy, a type of psychotherapy developed by Viktor Frankl. At its core, logotherapy is about helping individuals find meaning in their lives, even in the face of suffering. This approach aligns perfectly with the Kenneys’ belief that recovery is not just about breaking habits—it’s about finding purpose.
In the context of addiction recovery, many individuals struggle because their lives lack meaning. Logotherapy encourages them to explore the deeper reasons behind their addiction and uncover new sources of purpose. As Susan Kenney explains, “When people discover their why—their reason for living—they unlock a powerful force that fuels recovery. It’s not just about quitting a behavior; it’s about creating a life worth living.”
This approach allows individuals to move beyond their circumstances, empowering them to make healthier choices in the gap between stimulus and response.
Positive Psychology: Building Strengths, Not Fixing Weaknesses
Another cornerstone of Actualized Recovery is positive psychology. Unlike traditional psychology, which often focuses on diagnosing and fixing weaknesses, positive psychology emphasizes building on individual strengths. This shift in focus helps clients move from survival mode to thriving by cultivating optimism, resilience, and self-confidence.
Dave and Susan Kenney believe that focusing on what’s strong, rather than what’s wrong, is a game-changer in recovery. They use positive psychology to help individuals rediscover their character strengths and virtues, reinforcing that everyone has the potential to rise above adversity. This strength-based approach empowers individuals to take control of their journey and build a fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
The Role of Experiential Therapies
Dave and Susan Kenney also incorporate experiential therapies into their Actualized Recovery therapeutic approach to lasting recovery and thriving.
Experiential therapies like art, music, play, and equine therapy provide individuals with interactive, hands-on experiences that promote emotional healing and personal growth.
These therapies are particularly effective for those who struggle with traditional talk therapy. Through activities like art therapy and equine-assisted therapy, clients engage all their senses, creating a space where they can express themselves more freely and authentically.
Empowering Change from the Inside Out
Real, sustainable change comes from within. The Actualized Recovery approach works from the inside out, helping individuals recognize their own power to transform their lives. This approach fosters long-term resilience and personal growth by addressing the mind’s influence on the brain.
The Kenneys explain that change is more effective when it’s self-directed. People are more likely to embrace transformation when they realize the benefits of change on their own terms. This is the philosophy behind their brain-first recovery model, which guides individuals to develop new habits and neural pathways that support a life free from addiction.
Emergo Academy – Empowering Coaches
Today, Dave and Susan Kenney educate, certify, and empower recovery coaches and peer support specialists at Emergo Academy, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to unlock lasting change in their clients. Through Actualized Recovery and the brain-first approach, the Kenneys are transforming the field of recovery coaching, helping individuals achieve freedom and lasting transformation.
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