September marks National Recovery Month—a time to honor the courage of those navigating addiction and the professionals who walk beside them. At Growth Opportunity Center in Bucks County, four therapists—Edie Cohen, LPC; Dana Cohen, LMFT; Elyse Hibbs, LCSW; and Justin Benner, LCSW—gathered for a roundtable conversation that was equal parts clinical insight and human truth.

From left to right: Justin Benner, Dana Cohen, Elyse Hibbs (standing), Edie Cohen

Their insights converge around a powerful truth: recovery isn’t an end line, it’s a lifelong journey, marked by detours, discoveries, and the quiet bravery of continuing forward.

Dispelling the Myths

One of the most persistent misconceptions about addiction, they agreed, is the belief that it can be cured.

“People think, ‘I’ve resolved my issues, I’m good now,’” said Edie Cohen. “But once you have addiction, you have it. Recovery has to be maintained.”

Dana Cohen added, “Relapse is part of recovery. It doesn’t have to be, but it often is. What matters is how we respond—with empathy, not shame.”

Elyse Hibbs emphasized the importance of community: “You’re not alone. Recovery is sustained through connection with people who understand and walk with you.”

Justin Benner challenged the stigma that addiction is a moral failing. “Some of the strongest, most intelligent people I’ve met have struggled with addiction. It’s not weakness—it’s a disease. And it doesn’t discriminate.”

The therapists agreed that addiction doesn’t discriminate. Addiction affects people from every background. “It doesn’t care how educated or privileged you are”, said Edie.

Telehealth and the New Accessibility

The rise of telehealth has transformed how therapists support clients in recovery.

“Telehealth removes barriers like transportation, childcare, work schedules,” said Dana. “It’s allowed people to keep their jobs while still getting help.”

Elyse shared that virtual recovery groups have expanded access. “One client found a support group in Hawaii during the pandemic and still attends. That never would’ve happened before.”

Justin noted the flexibility: “People can meet from their car, during lunch breaks. It’s opened doors for folks who couldn’t access treatment before.”

The team agreed that while telehealth isn’t perfect for every client, it has made recovery support more accessible, especially for those juggling multiple responsibilities.

Defining Progress, One Person at a Time

When asked what successful recovery looks like, the therapists agreed: it’s personal.

“I don’t define success,” said Elyse. “I let the client define it. Instead, I ask, ‘Are your needs being met?”

Edie added, “When clients use coping skills outside of sessions like managing moods, stressors, to me, that’s progress.”

Dana stressed the importance of honesty. “If someone says everything’s great week after week, I get curious. I want to hear about the cravings, the stress, the real-life challenges and how they’re using tools to cope.”

Justin summed it up: “Recovery means living life on life’s terms. Navigating ups and downs with grace, without turning to addiction.”

The therapists emphasized that progress isn’t always dramatic, it’s often found in the quiet moments when someone chooses a healthier response, even when no one is watching.

Hope and Heartbreak, Side by Side

The emotional weight of this work is undeniable. Therapists often sit with both hope and heartbreak in the same moment.

“There’s always hope,” said Dana. “Even in the darkest times. I add, ‘It may not feel good, but it’s good to feel.’ That’s where healing begins.”

Justin reflected on the pain of relapse. “How many times do you give up on someone? My answer is: maybe the next time is the time they get it. This is a treatable illness. There’s always hope.”

The team acknowledged that while addiction is a deadly disease, it is also one that can be interrupted, redirected, and healed. Their work is rooted in that belief.

What Families Need to Know

Supporting someone in recovery isn’t just about love, it’s about education, boundaries, and self-care.

“Families need their own help,” said Dana. “Support groups, education, knowing they’re not alone. The healthier they are, the more likely recovery will succeed.”

Elyse added, “You can have hope with boundaries. Supporting someone doesn’t mean solving everything. Boundaries aren’t abandonment, they’re love in action.”

The therapists emphasized that family involvement can be transformative, but only when it’s grounded in clarity, not control.

Staying Grounded in the Work

Therapists also spoke about how they stay resilient in such emotionally intense work.

“Supervision, personal therapy, and self-care,” said Edie. “Meeting my own mental health needs is non-negotiable.”

Dana finds solace in her commute. “It’s time to process, cry if I need to, and let go of what I’ve carried.”

Justin emphasized community: “Isolation is dangerous—for clients and for us. I need the support of others doing this work.”

Elyse reflected on identity. “I’m not just a therapist. I love being a therapist, but I also need to nurture the other parts of myself. When that picture starts to shrink, I know it’s time to widen the lens.”

The team also stressed the importance of staying current. “The field has evolved,” said Justin. “If we cling to outdated ideas, we risk becoming rigid. And what doesn’t bend, breaks.”

If We Could Start Over

Asked what they’d change if they could redesign the recovery system from scratch, the therapists offered bold ideas.

“Treatment over jail,” said Justin. “We need to recognize addiction as a health issue, not a criminal one.”

“If I could eliminate one thing, it’d be shame,” said Elyse. “It’s corrosive. And it was once used as a treatment tool. That needs to end.”

Dana advocated for more resources for families. “They’re part of the recovery system too. We need to support them, not just the individual.”

The team agreed: recovery systems must evolve with compassion, flexibility, and a commitment to whole-person care.

Final Words

In closing, the therapists offered a message to anyone who might be wondering if recovery is possible.

“If you’re even a little curious about what life could look like—make an appointment,” said Elyse. “It’s the only way you’ll know.”

Justin agreed: “If you’re questioning whether you’re struggling with addiction, let’s talk.”

Dana smiled. “There’s no shame in getting help.”

If you or someone you love is exploring the path to recovery, Growth Opportunity Center is here to help. If you’re seeking support, our team is ready to meet you where you are. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.growthopportunitycenter.org or call (215) 947-8654. Recovery begins with connection—and it starts with reaching out.