For families navigating the challenging journey of supporting a loved one through addiction recovery, family therapy can provide essential tools and guidance. To gain insights on this topic, I sat down with family therapist Chad Beraud over Zoom. Although Chad is relatively new to Victory Addiction Recovery Center in Lafayette, Louisiana, joining in April 2024, he’s already made an impact in helping families build the communication and resilience needed to heal together. His enthusiasm for family therapy started in graduate school, where he discovered the power of counseling to create immediate, transformative changes within family dynamics.

During our conversation, Chad’s passion for making a difference was evident. He emphasized the importance of open communication and the need for family members to feel heard and validated. Though the process of family healing doesn’t happen overnight, Chad has witnessed remarkable growth in families who embrace the journey, finding strength and a renewed sense of purpose along the way. Our interview covered some of the most common challenges families face and the ways they can support a loved one without enabling harmful behaviors.

The Challenges Families Face in Addiction Recovery

Chad explained that one of the greatest obstacles is the urge for family members to “fix” their loved one. While this instinct often comes from a place of love and concern, it can become a counterproductive mindset, leading family members to focus solely on their loved one’s addiction rather than their own well-being. “When families feel consumed by their loved one’s addiction, they sometimes forget that they can’t control or solve the problem themselves.”

Chad also acknowledged that breaking old habits is difficult, especially when dealing with the shame and guilt that often accompany addiction within families. Family therapy helps address these emotions, allowing families to release the weight of self-blame and shift their focus toward building healthier relationships.

Supporting a Loved One Without Enabling

Chad emphasized that one of the most vital steps in supporting a loved one is setting clear, healthy boundaries. “Setting boundaries allows families to show love and support without compromising their own well-being or enabling behaviors that may hinder recovery,” he explained. In family therapy, Chad encourages family members to set goals that align with their growth, find ways to reclaim their lives and develop a stronger sense of identity separate from their loved one’s addiction.

Chad pointed out that establishing boundaries doesn’t mean distancing oneself emotionally but rather creating an environment that encourages mutual respect and accountability. “Boundaries help both the individual in recovery and their family members flourish. It’s about finding a balance where support is given, but dependency is discouraged.”

Processing Emotions of Hurt, Anger, and Guilt

According to Chad, family therapy provides a safe space for each member to openly express and process emotions such as anger, grief, sadness, and bitterness. “Addiction often leads to fractured trust and unresolved pain, and these feelings can build up over time,” he explained. Family therapy offers a structured setting where everyone’s emotions are validated, helping family members recognize that it’s okay to feel hurt or angry while still supporting their loved one’s recovery.

Through guided discussions and therapeutic techniques, family members are encouraged to confront their emotions and understand the roots of their pain. Chad pointed out that both the individual in recovery and their family members benefit from this process, as it fosters empathy and creates a foundation of emotional understanding. “In family therapy, we don’t just work on communication skills; we help families process complex emotions so they can move forward without lingering resentment.”

Family Therapy at Victory Addiction Recovery Center

At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, family involvement is a core component of the treatment process. Because addiction impacts the entire family, Victory encourages families to take an active role in their loved one’s recovery. This approach not only supports clients but also helps families heal from the pain caused by addiction, equipping them with the tools to build healthier relationships and support their loved one’s long-term recovery.

Chad shared that Victory offers family programs like Family Care Night and Family Week, specifically designed to support families during the recovery journey. “These programs give families a firsthand look at what their loved ones are experiencing,” he said. Family Care Night and Family Week also provide a sense of community, reminding families that they are not alone in their struggles. Meeting other families who are going through similar experiences can be incredibly healing. It helps families realize they have ongoing support, both from the therapy team and from each other.

Family programs at Victory focus on building understanding, empathy, and resilience. They prepare families to manage the challenges of addiction recovery while empowering them to find strength within their support system.

Learning to Communicate More Effectively

Chad explained that family therapy at Victory is a gradual process, often described as following a formula that takes time to show results. “It’s vital to trust the process,” he emphasized. “We guide families through structured conversations that help them express their feelings and concerns in a constructive way.”

In family therapy sessions, Chad encourages family members to listen actively, approach discussions with empathy, and avoid judgment. This approach fosters an environment where everyone feels heard and respected. “If you stick to the process, the results will come,” he said. Family therapy allows each member to be heard and understood, creating a more open and honest family dynamic.

Moving Forward Together

Chad’s dedication to helping families understand addiction and rebuild their relationships was evident throughout our conversation. For him, family therapy is about much more than just addressing substance use; it’s about giving families the tools to thrive, both as individuals and as a unit. Recovery is a journey, and family therapy is a key part of that journey. 

At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, family therapy is a collaborative, transformative experience, helping families navigate the challenges of addiction recovery with compassion, patience, and understanding. Whether through boundary setting, communication skills, or emotional healing, Victory provides the support families need to move forward together.