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Mary McGraw Gordon


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Jerry Moe to Speak at NYC Women’s Symposium
May 17th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
“Through a Child’s Eyes” is the topic of a presentation that will be given by Jerry Moe, during the Women’s Symposium in New York City June 26. Mr. Moe is Vice President, National Director of Children's Programs for the Betty Ford Center. An Advisory Board Member of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics, he is internationally known as an author, lecturer, and trainer on issues for young children from addicted families. He is featured in the documentary Lost Childhood: Growing Up in an Alcoholic Family, and his books include: Kids' Power: Healing Games for...

“Bringing Out the Best When Women are at Their Worst”
May 15th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
 "Bringing Out the Best When Women Are at Their Worst—Engaging Mothers in Treatment” will be Dr. Patricia O’Gorman’s topic at the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium in New York City on June 26.   Patricia O’Gorman , Ph.D, is a psychologist in private practice noted for her work on women, trauma, children of alcoholics, and substance abuse. She is a cofounder of the National Association of Children of Alcoholics and founding director of the Department of Prevention and Education for National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. She is the author of eight...

Prescription Drug Use Epidemic to be addressed by Dr. Harry Haroutunian
May 14th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Dr. Harry Haroutunian, Physician Director of the Betty Ford Center Licensed Professional Program, will speak on the topic “ Prescription Drug Use Epidemic ” May 21, 2013 in Torrance, CA as part of the Frontiers in Addiction Treatment Series presented by the Thelma McMillen Center and Betty Ford Center.  Dr. Haroutunian, known by his patients as 'Dr. Harry,' developed the "Recovery 101" lecture series on topics of Addiction Medicine, Recovery Issues, Communication Skills and Relapse Prevention.  As Physician Director of the Betty Ford Center, Dr. Haroutunian has contributed to...

Alumnus Finds Security and Confidence in Young Adult Track
May 10th, 2013 / Programs / Betty Ford Center
“My mom never slept a full night – she was either looking out the window or sitting on the couch, waiting for me to come home.  In a way, I think she was relieved when I was in rehab or jail because at least she knew where I was.” Jon D. is an alumnus of the Betty Ford Center Young Adult Track (YAT,) using what he learned at the Betty Ford Center to understand the impact his disease of addiction had on his family.  He is one of many young people who experienced treatment at the drug and alcohol treatment center and left with a sober, productive new life. Jon said one...

Texas Children’s Program News – Summer 2013
April 25th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
On April 26th, Sonny McCutcheon, LCDC, LAC, Board Registered Interventionist II and John Patton, LMSW facilitated the training “Structured Family Intervention: The Power of Love.” Pulling from years of experience, they helped mental health professionals grasp a further understanding of the intervention process as well as what steps to take whenever a family is in need of help. The next training in our Professional Training Series will be led by Shannon Purtell, LPC-S from the Center for Anger and Life Skills Management on Friday, September 6th from 9am-12pm at the Five Star Kids...

California Children’s Program News – Summer 2013
April 25th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
Our mission in the Children’s Program is to help children discover and practice the process of recovery from the family disease of alcoholism and/or other drug addiction. Every day, the staff at Betty Ford Center helps to make this statement a reality by providing innovative services for affected children and their families. Collaboration with other professionals and networks is the only way to bring this vision to light. The population in the Coachella Valley is diverse, and thrives because of our cultural differences. However;, we know that these differences do not prohibit any...

A Meal to not Remember
April 25th, 2013 / BFC Insights / Jerry Moe
The Betty Ford Children’s Program serves such a richly diverse group of families hurt by alcoholism and other drug addiction. Many of our courageous children live in homes where that cunning, powerful, and baffling disease is still active. Others come from families where their loved one is currently in treatment somewhere in the United States. Still others live in recovering families and sometimes have never witnessed the drinking and/or drugging, as well as the havoc it wreaks on everyone in its path. Regardless of the circumstances, the program empowers youth with accurate,...

Helping Children Through Loss and Grief
April 25th, 2013 / BFC Insights / Lindsey Chadwick
Thomas, an 8-year-old boy with a big heart and a wonderful smile, lost his father to addiction last year. He is not the first child we have worked with to experience grief and trauma, and in families with a history of addiction, he won’t be the last. Some children will suffer the unfortunate and untimely death of a loved one, but many others will experience grief as they are separated from an addicted parent or the place they call home. As professional counselors, it is vital that we become more trauma informed in providing care for our clients. Brian Bowls, LMFT, a compassionate and...

Kids Feel It, Too: Decreasing Shame and Stigma
April 25th, 2013 / BFC Insights / Peggy McGillicuddy
The Children’s Program provides healing, hope and support to the youngest family members impacted by addiction. Other treatment centers have now begun to offer these services. Though greatly needed, it can be a challenge to fill groups for one simple reason: the guilt and shame people feel about their disease. Kids feel it, too. Think about this: If just admitting to having addiction is so shame-provoking, what a scary feeling it must be to acknowledge that my disease may have harmed my kids. This shame is the number one barrier to parents seeking help for their children. Although...

Colorado Children’s Program News – Summer 2013
April 25th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
The Colorado Children’s Program will host a Parenting in Recovery Workshop on Saturday, May 11th at our office from 8:30-11 am. It is free of charge and specially designed for the caregivers of children who have participated in the program. Upcoming Group Dates May 16th-19th Denver June 13th-16th Colorado Springs June 20th-23rd Denver July 11th-14 th Denver July 18th-21st Colorado Springs

Betty Ford Center Nurse to be honored at Chamber of Commerce Event
April 23rd, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Donna Palmer has been chosen to represent the Betty Ford Center at the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce Nursing Awards of Excellence event in late April. The luncheon honors the top nurses from the four Coachella Valley hospitals as well as to a Nursing Specialty and an outstanding student nurse in the College of the Desert Nursing Program. Donna’s nursing career spans 15 years, and she holds a California Addictions RN (CARN) specialty license.  She worked in Telemetry, ICU and Med-Surg before joining the Betty Ford Center nursing staff in 2003, where she has worked nights...

John Pustaver to Present at Conference
April 17th, 2013 / Doctor's Office / Betty Ford Center
John Pustaver, Program Director of the Betty Ford Center Clinical Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE) Program, will participate in the National Burn Association Annual Conference in Palm Springs April 23-25. The American Burn Association and its members dedicate their efforts and resources to promoting and supporting burn-related research, education, care, rehabilitation, and prevention.  Members include physicians, nurses, occupational and physical therapists, researchers, social workers, firefighters, and hospitals with burn centers.  Their multidisciplinary membership enhances their...

Women’s Symposium Set for New York City in June
April 17th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
The Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium “It’s a Family Affair” is scheduled June 26, 2013 on the Lincoln Center Campus of Fordham University in New York City. “We are honored to bring the Women’s Symposium to New York City,” said Michela Sands, the Center’s Corporate Director of Business Development/Admissions. “We’ve long had a strong connection with the East Coast through our alumni as well as other treatment facilities and licensed professionals. The Symposium has been presented in California and Texas over the past several years, and we’re excited to see...

Dr. James Golden to Direct New Betty Ford Center Addiction Medicine Fellowship Program
April 16th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
The American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM) Foundation today announced the accreditation of eight addiction medicine fellowship programs, including one at the Betty Ford Center.  The Center will welcome its first Addiction Medicine Fellow later this year. Dr. James Golden , Physician Director, Inpatient Services at Betty Ford Center, will be Director of the Program. According to Dr. Golden, “We decided to do this because we realized we can offer all the elements necessary for a graduate fellowship program like this. We have a rich teaching/learning environment here,...

Awareness Helps Erase Negative Stigma
April 11th, 2013 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
April marks the 27th annual NCADD (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.) Alcohol Awareness Month. This infographic was created to spread awareness and understanding about alcoholism in order to erase the negative stigma attached to the disease, which prevents so many individuals from seeking help.

April is Alcohol Awareness Month
April 1st, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
The Betty Ford Center recognizes April as NCADD (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.) Alcohol Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase public awareness and understanding, reduce stigma and encourage local communities to focus on alcoholism and alcohol-related issues. The month-long event was conceived in 1987, and this year’s theme – “Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow” – focuses on the important public health issue of underage drinking , a problem with devastating individual, family and community consequences.   Annually, over 6,500 people under...

Addiction is not a Spectator Sport; Eventually the Whole Family Gets to Play
March 29th, 2013 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
  Husband to alcoholic wife :  “ You’re the one with the drinking problem, I don’t need help.” Father to mother :  “The kids don’t have any idea that I drink too much.” Child to therapist :  “I think my mommy drinks too much because I can’t make her happy.” These three perspectives cut to the heart of why it is important to treat the entire family when the disease of addiction is diagnosed. A family whose loved one is addicted needs support for the complications that follow the patient getting help, either through rehab treatment on a 12 Step...

Women’s Symposium Draws Enthusiastic Audience
March 28th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
The first Women’s Symposium of 2013 drew over 200 addiction professionals to the UCLA campus Thursday, March 21. This year, a second Women’s Symposium will be held at Fordham University in New York City on June 26. The day at UCLA began with a keynote address by Ali MacGraw, who shared candidly about her own recovery before turning the podium over to Dr. Daniel Siegel .  His topic was “the Mindful Therapist:  Presence, Attunement and Resonance in the Clinical Relationship.” Beautiful weather drew many of the participants out to a terrace during the buffet lunch...

Inaugural ‘Beamer Awards’ Focuses Attention on Betty Ford Center Children’s Program
March 18th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Over $450,000 was raised at the Betty Ford Center Foundation’s first Beamer Awards, held March 8 at the Annenberg Theater in Palm Springs. The event was created to promote and generate funds to help underwrite the Betty Ford Center Children's Program . John Boop, President of the Foundation, said that “Through the attention drawn to Beamer, the event helped us to maintain our commitment that no child is ever turned away because of finances. In fact, over 95% of those who participate attend on full or partial scholarship.” The first honoree of the Award was philanthropist Lois...

Limited Space Available for Los Angeles Women’s Symposium
March 13th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
There are still slots open for the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium scheduled Thursday, March 21, at the University of California at Los Angeles. Registration is $165 for the event, which begins with a continental breakfast and concludes with the final presentation of the day at 4:00 pm. The Women’s Symposium is an event that strengthens knowledge, competencies and collaborative networks for those who care for chemically dependent women and advocates the success of treatment.  It is advanced training for professionals who treat women and provides innovative tools that...

Annual Awareness Hour Program Begins in January 2013
March 13th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
The Alcohol and Other Drugs Awareness Hour is celebrating its 37th year with a series of lectures being held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences on the Eisenhower Medical Center campus. There is no charge for the lecture series, which begins January 12, 2013. This year's season is dedicated to the memory of James W. West, MD , former Medical Director of the Betty Ford Center. Following is the schedule of 2013 lectures: January 12, 2013 Topic: “An Historic Intervention” Speaker:  John T. Schwarzlose President /CEO, Betty Ford Center...

Detoxification Process Monitored Carefully
March 11th, 2013 / Programs / Betty Ford Center
The solution can become more of a problem in the case of buprenorphine hydrochloride, a drug used to reduce the symptoms of opiate dependence and assist in opiate detoxification . At the Betty Ford Center, buprenorphine is sometimes used to assist in detoxification from opiates.  “Buprenorphine may be incorporated in our opiate detox protocol, but not always,” said physician James Golden.  “Other adjunctive medications are used as well.  Buprenorphine is an excellent drug for detoxification because it does not induce euphoria, it suppresses withdrawal symptoms, and it...

John Schwarzlose to Receive Leonard Firestone Award
March 7th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
John Schwarzlose, President and CEO of the Betty Ford Center, will receive the Leonard K. Firestone Award during the ABC Recovery Center’s 50 th anniversary celebration in Indio March 15, 2013. The award is named after Leonard K. Firestone, co-founder of the Betty Ford Center and a close friend of both President and Mrs. Ford.   Leonard Firestone took a particular interest in charities associated with alcohol abuse.  In addition to being a cofounder of the Betty Ford Center in 1982, he was also director of the National Council of Alcoholism and Eisenhower Medical Center,...

Jerry Moe to be Honored with Emerald Spirit Award
March 5th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Jerry Moe, Vice President and National Director of the Betty Ford Center Children’s Program , will be given the second annual Emerald Spirit Award in New York City March 16 as part of Sober St. Patrick’s Day ® . The day was established in 2012 as a family-friendly, fresh alternative for those who want to celebrate the holiday in an alcohol-free atmosphere.  Award-winning TV producer William Spencer launched the event, which features an entertainment lineup that includes world-class Irish musicians, dancers and comedians. The Emerald Spirit award is awarded to...

Training Opportunity Available at Betty Ford Center
March 4th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
'Private Practice Training for Drug and Alcohol Professionals:  Getting Started in Private Practice' is the topic of a day-long training session scheduled Saturday, March 9, at the Betty Ford Center's Gateway Office in Palm Desert, CA. Pete Nielson, LAADC, CADC II will present the training, and 8 Continuing Education Hours will be awarded at the end of the day. Information on a variety of aspects will be shared, including: Generating referrals Financing your start-up Setting fees Minimizing risk The registration deadline is March 6, and more information may be...

Dr. Kitty Harris to Speak at Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium
February 28th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
“Woman Unbroken; Putting the Pieces Together through Recovery” will be Dr. Kitty Harris’ topic at the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium , scheduled March 21 at UCLA in Los Angeles.  Dr. Harris is currently the Associate Dean of Outreach and Engagement in the College of Human Sciences and holds the George C. Miller Regent's Professorship at Texas Tech University.  Since 2002, she has served as the Director of the Center for the Study of Addiction and Recovery (CSAR) at Texas Tech University and currently holds LCDC (Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor) and LMFT...

Food Addiction to be Addressed at Women’s Symposium
February 26th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Tennie McCarty, founder and CEO of Shades of Hope treatment center, is a featured speaker for the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium , scheduled March 21 at UCLA in Los Angeles. Ms. McCarty entered the field of addiction treatment over 30 years ago and has dedicated her life to helping those with food and co-occurring addictions, as well as their families.  She has been featured on both ‘Addicted to Food’ on the Oprah Winfrey Network and ‘Ruby’ on the Style Network and has also made numerous visits to the ‘Dr. Oz’ program. Her book “Shades of Hope…A Program...

Women’s Symposium will Feature Dr. Peter Levine
February 22nd, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Dr. Peter A. Levine is a featured speaker for the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium , scheduled March 21 at UCLA in Los Angeles.  His topic during the day-long event will be:  “In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness.” Dr. Levine received his Ph.D. in medical biophysics from the University of California at Berkeley and also holds a doctorate in psychology from International University. He has worked in the field of stress and trauma for over 40 years and is the developer of SE (Somatic Experiencing.) We recently asked a few questions...

‘It Happens to Boys Too’ Conference Features Jerry Moe
February 21st, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Jerry Moe, Vice President and National Director of the Betty Ford Center Children’s Programs , will be a featured speaker at the Fifth Annual ‘ It Happens to Boys Too’ Conference March 1-2, 2013 at the Doral Desert Princess Hotel in Palm Springs, CA. The conference is designed for therapists, social workers, nurses, physicians, recovery counselors, abuse survivors and partners of survivors. Additional speakers include Dave Pelzer, John Bradshaw, John Lee, Michael Meade, Judy Crane, Cindy Carter, Patrick Haggerson, Bobbi Carlson, Jasmin Rogg and Eric Carlson. The event...

Betty Ford Center Admits 100,000th Patient
February 20th, 2013 / Media / Betty Ford Center
Betty Ford Center, the world-renowned addiction treatment hospital, admitted its 100,000 th patient late last week. The 100,000 figure represents the total number of patients admitted into the Center’s Inpatient, Residential Day Treatment (RDT), Intensive Outpatient and Family programs since the Center opened its doors October 4, 1982. The announcement was made by the Chair of the Center’s Board of Directors, Dr. Mary Pattiz, who said, “This is another important milestone in the Center’s commitment to provide access to quality care to as many people as possible.  It seems...

Jerry Moe Honored During Conference
February 12th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
Jerry Moe, Vice President and National Director of the Betty Ford Center Children’s Programs , received an unexpected accolade during the recent Evolution of Addiction Treatment conference in Los Angeles. As the February 9 keynote speaker on the topic “Kids' Power: Healing for Children from Addicted Families,” Jerry was onstage when Conference Chair Allen Berger, Ph.D., surprised him with a special honor. Jerry was presented with the McMillen Outstanding Counselor Award – 2013 for his outstanding contributions to teaching children and families. "I am honored to...

Health Matters Conference Draws Strong Response
February 12th, 2013 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
The infographic below shows the impressive reach of the recent #HealthMatters2013 conference held in La Quinta, CA. Betty Ford Center President and CEO John Schwarzlose moderated a panel on Mental Health and Addictions during the day-long event. The vision of the Clinton Health Matters Initiative (CHMI) is to improve the health and well-being of all United States citizens. CHMI’s ultimate measure of success will be a reduction in the prevalence of preventable disease, a reduction in health care costs associated with preventable disease and an increase in well-being indicators...

Women’s Symposium Features Dr. Dan Siegel
February 8th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
Dr. Dan Siegel will be the keynote speaker at the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium at the University of California, Los Angeles on March 21.  “The Mindful Therapist: Presence, Attunement and Resonance in the Clinical Relationship” is the subject of his address at the event, which is held to provide innovative tools that help professionals care for women affected by addiction. Dr. Siegel is currently clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine and the Co-Director of the Mindful Awareness Research Center. He is also the Executive Director of the...

Betty Ford Center to Co-host Professional Development Summit
February 7th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
Registration is now open for the Third Annual Professional Development Summit, hosted by Betty Ford Center and RecoveryView.com. The event will be held Thursday, April 11, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm at Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica, CA. Speakers and subjects for for this year's event include: Mark Schwartz, Sc.D. - "Intimacy and Intimacy Disorder:  The Pathognomonic Feature of Addicton" Nancy Waite-O'Brien, Ph.D. - "One Moment at a Time:  Mindful Therapy for Those in Early Recovery" John McAndrew, MA, MDiv - "Spirituality and recovery for the 21st Century: ...

Comfortable Detox is Important
January 24th, 2013 / Programs / Betty Ford Center
The thought of detox from alcohol and drugs while in chemical dependency treatment can be daunting, but the process is handled with care at the Betty Ford Center. As a licensed chemical dependency hospital, the Center has the capability of offering on-site detoxing for patients who need it. The detox protocol is created and monitored with patient comfort as a priority. Dr. James Golden, Betty Ford Center Addiction Medicine Physician, discusses alcohol and drug detox while in treatment at Betty Ford Center. Alcohol and Drug Detox

Registration Now Open for Symposium for Women
January 17th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
“Journey to Wholeness” is the theme of the Betty Ford Center Women’s Symposium scheduled Thursday, March 21, at the University of California at Los Angeles.  Registration and a continental breakfast begin at 7:00 am, and the final presentation of the day concludes at 4:00 pm. The one-day event features leaders in the fields of addiction , behavioral health and women’s issues, and participants will be able to earn up to 5.5 Continuing Education Hours (CEHs.) Ali MacGraw will open the event with a keynote address at 8:15 am.  In addition to her many memorable movie...

Betty Ford Center to Participate in Clinton Foundation Health Matters Conference
January 14th, 2013 / / Betty Ford Center
“Clinton Health Matters is focused on increasing access to healthcare for all,” said John Schwarzlose, CEO and President of Betty Ford Center .  “During their National Healthcare Conference this week, there will be a focus on access, including the important topic of Addiction and Mental Health Treatment.  We look forward to contributing to this important dialogue.” There will be several panels focusing on health issues during the day-long conference, which will be live-streamed from La Quinta, CA. To RSVP and participate in the live stream, click ‘RSVP to Watch’...

Galletta Award Goes to Jerry Moe
December 20th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Dr. Joseph L. Galletta Spirit of Recovery Award. He accepted the honor December 13, 2012 at the Hemet Valley Recovery Annual Luncheon at Spencer’s Restaurant in Palm Springs, CA. Jerry, left, is pictured here with last year's recipient of the award, Jerry McDonald. Jerry is Vice President, National Director of Children's Programs at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, California; Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas and Denver, Colorado. An Advisory Board Member of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACoA), he is internationally known as an author, lecturer and...

Betty Ford Center Receives Major Gift to Fund Groundbreaking Medical Education Initiative
December 18th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Betty Ford Center, the licensed addiction hospital co-founded 30 years ago by former First Lady Betty Ford, announced today the receipt of a generous grant that will enable it to significantly expand its efforts to educate the nation’s healthcare professionals – especially medical doctors – on the disease of addiction, the treatment process, and the promise of recovery. The Scaife Family Foundation, headquartered in Palm Beach, Florida, is awarding $1.2 million toward the Medical Education Initiative.  Additionally, the Foundation is awarding $100,000 to the Summer Institute for...

CEO Serves as Expert for Local Clinton Health Matters Initiative
December 13th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
John Schwarzlose, President and CEO of the Betty Ford Center, was recently invited to serve as a content expert for the ‘Clinton Health Matters Initiative Coachella Valley Blueprint’ development session. The vision of the Clinton Health Matters Initiative (CHMI) is to improve the health and well-being of all people in the United States by activating individuals, communities, and corporations to contribute to the health of others through individual, systems, and investment actions. The Coachella Valley, along with the Greater Little Rock area, is one of the first two...

Betty Ford Center Celebrates 30th Anniversary
November 20th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The annual fall Betty Ford Center anniversary is a time for alumni to return to campus, revitalize recovery in the place where their new lives began and renew their bond with friends they made in treatment. This year, over two thousand alumni returned to the campus the weekend of November 9-11 to celebrate the 30 th anniversary of one of the world’s leading addiction treatment facilities. To date, treatment and education services have been provided by the Betty Ford Center to nearly 100,000 alumni. The event drew participants from all Betty Ford Center treatment and educational...

Jerry Moe Receives Third Annual ‘Spirit of Recovery’ Award
November 6th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Jerry Moe, MA, has been named the 2012 Joseph L. Galletta “Spirit of Recovery” Award winner. Jerry received multiple nominations citing his professionalism and dedication in working with children of alcoholic families. Jerry is Vice President, National Director of Children’s Programs at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, California; Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas and Denver, Colorado. "Jerry is an expert in working with children of alcoholic families. He founded 'The Children's Place' in 1978 and has been running the Childrens' Program for The Betty Ford Center for nearly...

Betty Ford Center Selected as Expert by ‘WebMD Answers’
October 22nd, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
 WebMD Health Corp., the leading source of health information, announced the launch of WebMD Answers, where consumers can pose health questions that can be asked and answered within WebMD’s trusted environment. WebMD Answers’ Q&As are contextually integrated throughout the WebMD experience as well as through WebMD Search, so that consumers can now access information from leading health experts, organizations and other consumers when they need it. In this new endeavor, WebMD has partnered with the Betty Ford Center, the renowned licensed addiction hospital in Rancho Mirage,...

“How Do I Make Him Stop?”
October 15th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Family members face a gamut of challenges before they finally reach the point where they’re ready to confront the alcoholic/addict in their midst. Conventional wisdom says family and friends are powerless until the person in the grip of addiction admits to having a problem.  The pain of the disease becomes greater than the ability to withstand it, and – if all goes well – the person in need enters recovery.  This may mean 12 Step meetings, a treatment program , therapy groups; a host of options are available. On occasion, the situation becomes so intolerable that an...

30th Anniversary Keepsakes Now Available
October 2nd, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Alumni and friends of the Betty Ford Center now have the opportunity to acquire a memento created specifically to honor the 30 th anniversary of the drug and alcohol treatment center . All proceeds from sales of three wearable items will go to the Center’s Patient Scholarship Fund to help those who struggle to afford treatment. The articles include a blue silk tie with the Betty Ford Center logo discretely woven in along with two scarf options.  One of the latter features a modern interpretation of the Betty Ford Center logo and the other is a more traditional style....

‘Bath Salts’ Present New Challenge in Addiction Treatment
September 30th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
A legal high with an innocuous name is the latest drug bringing young people into addiction treatment. “Even though they may be labeled ‘not for human consumption’, bath salts can be obtained without prescription or legal oversight,” said Dr. Peter Przekop , DO, Ph.D. of the Betty Ford Center.   “The people marketing the drug are gearing their appeal to youths – especial young male adults with a previous history of substance abuse.” The drug first appeared in Europe in 2006 and showed up in the United States three years later.  Bath salts are often synthesized...

Alumni Generosity Benefits Those in Need
September 24th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Alumni of the Betty Ford Center are staunch supporters of the value of addiction treatment .  In fact, their belief is so strong they contributed more than three-quarters of a million dollars to support the Financial Assistance Fund in the last year. “Over $840,000 was donated in the 2011-12 fiscal year, allowing us to help many people in need,” said John Boop, President of the Betty Ford Center Foundation.   “We especially appreciate seeing that the donations came from a variety of people in a range of financial situations.  One common thread runs through all of the...

Betty Ford Center Employees Rise to the Challenge
September 21st, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The Betty Ford Center has commissioned sculptor J. Brett Grill to create a full-sized bronze bust of Betty Ford.  The piece will honor the Center’s 30 th anniversary and be displayed in the Admissions lobby area following a dedication ceremony during the November event. The Center’s staff has been invited to underwrite the sculpture, and CEO John Schwarzlose said the warm response brings to mind the value Mrs. Ford placed on all the employees. “Mrs. Ford often said the staff is the heartbeat of the Betty Ford Center , and their dedication to the patients, their...

Colorado Local News
September 13th, 2012 / Recovery News / Betty Ford Center
This past July, the Betty Ford Colorado Children’s Program moved to a new location.  Our offices are now located in the Forum Building in southeast Aurora, directly across the street from the Doubletree Hotel where we hold programs each month. This building will not only bring a more comfortable and efficient working environment for staff, but more opportunities as well.  Our new space has two large group rooms, which will allow us to have an aftercare program at our facility.  Once fully furnished, our hope is to facilitate programs in this space as well.  Currently we are most...

California Local News
September 13th, 2012 / Recovery News / Betty Ford Center
The Children’s staff at the Betty Ford Center care deeply about the wellbeing of the children in our community.  Establishing new connections with local agencies and maintaining those whom we have worked with for years is very important.  In an effort to provide deeper education about the family disease of addiction and specific knowledge of our program, we have established a position where we can devote time and energy to the needs of the local and surrounding community.  Meghan Sullivan, msullivan@bettyfordcenter.org , will now serve as our Children’s Program Coordinator.  One...

Book Review: The ACOA Trauma Syndrome: The Impact of Childhood Pain on Adult Relationships
September 13th, 2012 / Recovery News / Betty Ford Center
Dr. Tian Dayton is a dynamic therapist, psychodramatist, and prolific author in the recovery field. Her fifteen books include ‘Emotional Sobriety’, ‘Trauma and Addiction’, ‘Heartwounds’, ‘Forgiving’, and ‘Moving On’. She is a highly sought-after speaker for conferences and training events. Tian’s latest book is ‘The ACOA Trauma Syndrome: The Impact of Childhood Pain on Adult Relationships.’ Adult children from alcoholic and other drug addicted families, as well as youth from other high stress family systems, often carry silent, hidden wounds from the trauma...

The Challenges and Benefits of Group Work with both Addicted and Non-Addicted Parents
September 13th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Elizabeth Devine
The program’s primary focus is to offer support and guidance to kids who love someone with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. In order to provide the most comprehensive care possible, it is important that caregivers are also equipped with tools for healthy parenting. In keeping with this effort, over the course of a family’s participation in the Children’s Program, adults are asked to attend group together so that various parenting issues, in relation to familial addiction, can be discussed. The group may be comprised of those in recovery, those who are partners or ex-partners...

It is About Having Fun! Easing Into Group
September 13th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Peggy McGillicuddy
I am always nervous, apprehensive and a little scared on the first morning of a program. No matter how many children I've worked with, or how many groups I've done, I still find myself wondering: Will things go okay? Will kids open up?  Will we meet expectations? Will they like me? I then take a deep breath, recite the Serenity Prayer a few times, and remind myself that I am an adult. It will be what it will be. The process unfolds the way it's supposed to. I can only imagine what the children who walk through the door are thinking. Why do I have to do this? Will I be bored?...

Dallas Local News
September 12th, 2012 / Recovery News / Betty Ford Center
Five Star Kids has long partnered with several other organizations, including St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Plano and the Recovery Resource Council in Ft. Worth, to accommodate children and families who are located too far from our main offices in Irving. For many years, these organizations have allowed us to utilize their space and resources, making it possible for us to bring our program to those who would otherwise go without. We are so happy to announce that we now also have a location for our groups available in Dallas at the Innovation 360 offices . Innovation 360...

What Are You Waiting For?
September 10th, 2012 / / Joan Connor Clark
At first, the reasons people provide for postponing inpatient treatment for addiction seem reasonable. Women can’t leave their children just as summer vacation begins.  Men can’t leave work because there wouldn’t be coverage.  Young adults can’t leave school because they may jeopardize their futures. They might go on to say that they’ve been to treatment before, and they feel guilty about relapsing.  Or they don’t want to be away from home over a holiday or another milestone, such as a wedding or graduation. Others bring up the cost of addiction treatment, saying...

Pet Therapy Offers Comfort at Betty Ford Center
August 23rd, 2012 / Programs / Kerri Compton
A trio of dogs have found their way into the hearts of patients – and staff – at the Betty Ford Center. Golden Retriever Irish and Cavalier King Charles spaniels Kerry and Toby interact with patients – and staff – on several levels.  The two smaller dogs bring their intuition to group sessions, and Irish is a willing playmate and friend. Many patients who miss their pets at home find these therapy dogs a welcome addition to their inpatient treatment.  One alumna recently said, “I have a Golden Retriever at home, and being able to see Irish – and give him hugs – was a...

Patriots for Parity Field Hearing Set for September in Los Angeles
August 13th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Betty Ford Center is one of the hosts of the ‘Patriots for Parity’ field hearing September 18 at 6:30 pm at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles, 617 W. 7 th St., Los Angeles, CA. State and local representatives, providers and consumers will speak about parity implementation and enforcement during the field hearing. Among those planning to attend are the Honorable Mary Bono Mack, the Honorable Patrick Kennedy, the Honorable Grace Napolitano and the Honorable Jim Ramstad. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 requires equality...

Five Star Kids’ Schedule Announced
August 6th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Lance Hughes, manager of Betty Ford Center’s Five Star Kids , recently announced the upcoming schedule for the program. “We believe in strong partnerships and work with numerous treatment programs, agencies and professional organizations to help create a network of support for children who love someone addicted to alcohol or other drugs,” said Lance.  “Children are usually the first hurt and the last helped in the midst of the disease of addiction.  We include parents and guardians in the recovery process to help create the best possible opportunity for healing for the...

Addiction: Small Resources for Big Problem
July 26th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The disease of addiction receives much less financial attention than other chronic diseases.

Farewell to a Beloved Friend, Dr. James West
July 25th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Dr. West, M.D., F.A.C.S., was the medical director of the Betty Ford Center from 1982 to 1989. He graduated from the Loyola University School of Medicine, and was a member of the surgical team that performed the first human kidney transplant in 1950 at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Chicago. Dr. West practiced surgery for forty years and was an assistant clinical professor of surgery at Loyola University School of Medicine. After pursuing further studies in the areas of psychiatry and the subspecialty of substance abuse disorders, Dr. West started the Illinois State Medical Society...

“My Alcoholic Needs Help: What Shall I Do?”
July 16th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
When a loved one is in trouble because of alcohol or drug abuse, the instinct of family members is to do whatever is necessary to help. However, that first instinct may not be the one that’s going to be effective. Following a few simple, organizational steps can make this experience less challenging and hopefully produce a result that leads to inpatient treatment, outpatient care, 12 Step recovery and/or other positive options. The first step is most important; confirm that the person you want to help truly has the disease of addiction .  Since you are reading this...

Remembering Betty Ford
July 5th, 2012 / / John Schwarzlose
Betty Ford touched thousands of people’s lives in the most positive and empowering ways.  Her openness in discussing breast cancer and addictive disease made it more than okay for women and men to ask for help.  The Betty Ford Center honors her vision every day.  We keep her memory alive for every family seeking to change their legacy. Since her passing last July 8, Betty Ford has been eulogized by thousands of people around the world. The conversations Betty began about treatable illnesses continue to this day.  Betty described herself as “… an ordinary woman living in...

Staying Safe and Sober on the 4th of July
July 3rd, 2012 / / Joan Connor Clark
Holiday celebrations often carry a burden of expectations.  There are many ways your 4th of July holiday can be more comfortable, especially if you're in early recovery. I was in treatment at the Betty Ford Center during the 4th of July in 1984 and have fond memories of celebrating that holiday sober for the first time in many years.  Several of us who were in treatment then are still in touch, and that sober holiday is one of our touchstones in sobriety. First, utilize a 12 Step suggestion and "keep it simple."  Whatever "it" is – food, family – remember that less is...

Long-term Recovery Advocated by Drug Control Policy Director
June 28th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The White House's drug czar, Gil Kerlikowske, pictured here with Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, called for a “paradigm shift” in the nation's approach to curbing drug abuse during a recent speech at the Betty Ford Center. Mr. Kerlikowske, director of the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy, pushed for expanded access to long-term recovery programs across the country. He also advocated reviewing thousands of state and federal laws that often hurt recovering addicts trying to rejoin society. “This country hasn't looked at recovery in a way that makes...

International Scientists Gather at Betty Ford Center
June 15th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Betty Ford Center welcomed over 50 scientists from around the world for a gathering at the Center Monday, June 11. The group included members of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) International Program and UCLA faculty who were attending the College on Problems of Drug Dependence (CPDD), an annual conference that was held this year in La Quinta, CA. Originally planned as a campus tour and lecture, the event expanded when it was announced that Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) was delivering a major speech at the Betty Ford...

Marianne Loera Honored at Nursing Event
June 13th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce recently bestowed Nursing Awards of Excellence upon the top nurses from the four Coachella Valley hospitals as well as to a Nursing Specialty and an outstanding student nurse in the College of the Desert Nursing Program. Marianne Loera, LPTII, was selected to represent the Betty Ford Center and is congratulated here by Dr. James Golden, left, and John Schwarzlose , CEO of the Center, at the Appreciation Awards Luncheon held at the Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa. As a Licensed Psychiatric Technician, Ms. Loera is one of the first...

Major Speech by Director of National Drug Control Policy Set for Monday June 11
June 7th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) will deliver a major speech at the Betty Ford Center Monday, June 11, calling on Americans to understand drug addiction as a chronic disease of the brain instead of a moral failure. His talk will outline the importance of Federal, state, local, and community efforts to lift the stigma associated with substance use disorders. Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack will also be in attendance. View the  entire press conference here .

Success, Hope and Dreams Addressed at Conference
May 31st, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Success, Hope and Dreams Bob Newton, retired Betty Ford Center lead counselor, shared his recovery and relapse prevention strategies at the recent statewide Behavioral Health Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska,  The event was titled ''Facing Challenges – Creating Solutions – Celebrating Recovery.''  Bob continues to be involved with the Betty Ford Center, serving as lead relapse prevention facilitator for the Center’s Young Adult Track (YAT.)  Bob was a consensus All-American football player at the University of Nebraska on their first National Championship team and a former...

Tour of Our Campus
May 31st, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
[caption id="attachment_2017" align="alignleft" width="514" caption="Gate Entrance"] [/caption] [caption id="attachment_1988" align="aligncenter" width="515" caption="Admission Entrance"] [/caption] [caption id="attachment_2035" align="alignleft" width="513" caption="Admission Lobby"] [/caption] [caption id="attachment_2020" align="alignleft" width="515" caption="Irish, therapy dog"] [/caption] [caption id="attachment_2021" align="alignleft" width="515" caption="Kerry and Toby, therapy dogs"] [/caption]...

National Prevention Week is Underway
May 22nd, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
National Prevention Week is being recognized from May 20 – 26, and this year’s theme is “We are the ones. How are you taking action?" The theme was introduced in the spring of 2011 through a public service announcement (PSA) video contest sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ( SAMHSA .)  Young people were encouraged to create a public service announcement that showed how their daily decisions around substance abuse prevention and the promotion of mental health make a difference in their communities. Each day this week, a different aspect...

Steven Tyler Selects Betty Ford Center for Awards Donation
May 16th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Entertainer Steven Tyler has chosen Betty Ford Center as the recipient of a donation if he and Carrie Underwood are honored as winners during the CMT Music Awards on June 6.  The singers are nominated for ‘CMT Performance of the Year’, and fans can vote on the CMT website between now and June 4 th . Those who have a CMT.com, Facebook, Twitter, Google, Yahoo, MySpace or OpenID account can vote online.  Those without a CMT.com, Facebook, Twitter, Google, Yahoo, MySpace or OpenID account you will need to create one before being able to vote online for the 2012 CMT Music...

‘For the Love of Children’
May 15th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
For over 34 years, Jerry Moe, Vice President and National Director of Children’s Programs at the Betty Ford Center, has been an advocate for children affected by the disease of addiction. “Children, when they receive the proper help, support and guidance, can grow up with a sense of self-respect, a connection to positive spirituality, and the ability to participate constructively in life,” Mr. Moe said recently.  “With this goal in mind, I’ve developed a strategy that can empower parents and grandparents to make a lasting difference in the lives of their children.”...

Combination of Alcohol and Drugs can be Deadly
May 14th, 2012 / / Dr. James Golden
Addiction is a fatal disease . The American Society of Addiction Medicine recently released an updated definition of addiction.  In part, it is described as “… a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry.  It is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response.  Like other chronic diseases, addiction involves cycles of relapse and remission.” The...

California Local News
April 26th, 2012 / / Jerry Moe
Our primary focus in the Children’s Program has always been to serve children and provide safety and guidance as they discover that they are not alone.  This prevention program helps them find a voice when it comes to how addiction has affected their young lives.  Over the first three months of the year, we will have provided six programs at our center and five in local schools within the Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD).  It is such a pleasure each year to establish new community connections as well as to reestablish those we have been working with for years.  Some of...

Texas Local News
April 26th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Professional Training Series The Professional Training Series is hosted in the Irving Five Star Kids offices as a part of our effort to offer quality learning opportunities to the mental health community. On March 9th, Suzy Jary, LCSW, TEP provided a dynamic and experiential training on Co-dependency which received many positive reviews from those in attendance. The Five Star Kids staff remains committed to finding professionals who can present interesting and useful information to those working in the mental health field. If you or someone you know would be interested in providing a...

National Children of Alcoholics Week
April 26th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Children affected by a loved one’s addiction to drugs or alcohol often feel isolated. One of the first messages Children’s Program staff attempt to communicate to kids in group is that they are not alone. To address this same challenge, February 12-18, 2012 was designated National Children of Alcoholics (COA) Week in order to encourage communities across the nation to help break the silence often surrounding familial alcoholism and drug addiction by reaching out in support of these children and their families. The need for COA week is evident as statistics show that one in four...

Before A Rule Is Broken: Proactive Behavior Management
April 26th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
In the last issue of Planting Seeds, I wrote about creating safety with rules and consequences.  However, behavior management begins before the first child walks through the door. Being proactive and preventative can curtail problems before they start.  Practice these tips and you will be one step ahead of the game! Be Prepared Have all of your group supplies ready and waiting each day.  Set the room up the night before.  Don’t find yourself running around at the last minute gathering materials for the next activity.   Lulls in group while the facilitator gets organized...

You Are Not Alone, Part I
April 26th, 2012 / Programs / Betty Ford Center
For many of the interested parents who sign up for our program, there may be a lot of fear and anxiety. What will happen and what my child will say during the program. This fear may be what prevents them from showing up that first day. The first thing I want parents to know is that they are not alone. Here is often the scene of the first day of the program: The parents, after braving the Thursday morning Denver Metro (or Colorado Springs) traffic, finally arrive at the hotel which is hosting the four-day event. They have received their information packet, which includes a brief...

Colorado Local News
April 24th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The Colorado Children’s Program has been very busy. In December, we facilitated two community programs in Denver and Colorado Springs locations. We were also able to enjoy staff self-care with many of the Colorado Team taking time off during the holidays.  The rest was much needed as we were geared up for a busy winter season. In January, we kicked off the New Year with a Stage II in Denver providing continuing care to 15 children’s program alumni.  On January 21 st , David was interviewed for the radio program Eye on Addiction Radio (available via their website...

Annual Betty Ford Center Golf Tournament Benefits Scholarship Fund
April 23rd, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The 26th Betty Ford Invitational Pro-Am Dinner was recently held at The Club at Morningside as the opening event for the annual charity golf tournament played the next day. The tournament features LPGA pros and raises money for the Financial Assistance Fund that assists with drug and alcohol treatment for qualified patients who need financial help to attend the Betty Ford Center . Guests were welcomed by BFC Chairman of the Board Mary Pattiz and Jim Greenbaum, Chairman of the Foundation Board. The dinner posthumously honored the namesake founder of the Betty Ford Center, former first...

California Children’s Program News – Summer 2011
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The California Children’s Program strives to help in educating families about the disease of addiction in many different ways. We are dedicated to serving families that come to our Children’s Program on our main campus; however, a large amount of time is utilized throughout our community. We will continue to have two programs a month on the main campus during the summer. In addition, many of our staff will participate in the International Doctors and Dentists in Alcoholics Anonymous (IDAA) Conference in August. Staff will travel to Arizona to host several children’s groups...

What is “Tools for the Journey?”
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
“Tools for the Journey” is a one-day workshop offered by Betty Ford Children’s Program for professionals interested in helping children from addicted homes. The session provides training on how to work with children and families in achieving these goals: 1. Introduce children to healing from addiction in their family; 2. Empower adults with parenting skills; and 3. Heal the parent/child relationship. The first half of the day is spent understanding addiction and resilience. Addiction is presented as a multigenerational disease which thrives on the “Family Laws of Addiction:...

PRISM Award Recognizes the Struggle of Kids of Alcoholics
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
On April 28th, the 15th Annual PRISM Awards recognized Lucky Duck Productions’ special program, “Nick News with Linda Ellerbee – “Under the Influence: Kids of Alcoholics”” with the award for Children or Teen Television Program. The special tells the story of 5 kids who live with alcoholic parents and the challenges they face because of it. Although the program shows how sad and scary it can be for children living with alcoholism, it also delivers a message of hope. Jerry Moe, National Director, Betty Ford Children’s Program, who is featured in the show as the subject matter...

Positive Discipline for Parenting in Recovery
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
The one book we consistently recommend to the parents, foster parents and grandparents who go through our children’s programs is Positive Discipline for Parenting in Recovery . Written by Jane Nelsen, Riki Intner and Lynn Lott, and recently updated in 2007, this powerful book focuses on mending the broken bond between parent and child. With an emphasis on solutions, this book helps grown-ups take charge of their lives and make positive changes to bring healing, health and wellness to the whole family. Parents in recovery learn one step at a time how to create consistency and order in...

Continuing Care Unique to Each Program, Uniformly Valuable
April 17th, 2012 / Programs / Betty Ford Center
Continuing care is an essential ingredient to the recovery process for alcoholics, addicts and their families. This is also very true when it comes to the children. Continuing care allows kids and families to stay connected, receive valuable reminders of the tools they learned during the program, as well as the opportunity to practice and deepen these emerging skills. Continuing care activities take different forms and shapes in our three children’s programs. This is a reflection of the various communities we serve, as well as what best works in each locale. California...

Colorado News
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Our staff is growing to meet the demands in Colorado. Please welcome Josie Warren as our new children’s counselor. A native Coloradan, Josie grew up in the Eastern Plains and started off in our group as a volunteer. Her enthusiasm and desire to help children from addicted homes has shown through and played a major role in her being hired for the position. Upcoming Events: David Meggitt, manager of the Colorado Children’s Program, will be presenting at the 37th Annual Psychotherapy Associates Annual Advanced Winter Symposium. On Thursday, February 3, David will be presenting...

“Growing Up In An Alcoholic Family”
April 17th, 2012 / Doctor's Office / Betty Ford Center
Lost Childhood : Growing Up In An Alcoholic Family is a half-hour program told in three parts. The first part begins in 1986 at a summer camp retreat for young children of alcoholics. The children speak about their experiences with an honesty and wisdom beyond their years. Many of these children know they are at high risk of becoming alcoholics themselves. Part two takes place 17 years later as we follow up with two of the children from 1986 who are now adults. Through their experiences, we explore the long-term impacts of living with alcoholism in the family. The third part...

Let us share a harvest with you today!
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
Welcome to our new newsletter for professionals, Planting Seeds. All of the Children’s Program staff, whether we’re in Texas, Colorado or California, consider ourselves farmers. Each and every day, in our work with children and families hurt by the insidious disease of alcoholism and other drug addiction, we sow seeds that we hope will take root. Some of the seeds may wash away; others may lie dormant for some time. Every once in a while one of those seeds will grow in a child’s heart – in that small fertile patch that hasn’t been affected by a family member’s addiction. And...

“12 Steps for Parents”
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
From ‘12 Steps for Parents’ by Dr. Patricia O’Gorman and Philip Diaz, MSW It is important to remember that parenting is always a struggle between love and fear. As parents, we try to control our children in an attempt to protect them from any painful experiences. The best you can do as a parent is be an example and encourage your children to their fullest by being all that you can be. As a recovering parent you will need to take responsibility for learning about your children and developing new parenting strategies so that you may open new avenues of communication and self respect...

Texas Five Star Kids News – Summer 2011
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
EMDR Workshop Successful On April 29th, Renee Lozano, LCSW presented as part of the Betty Ford Center Five Star Kids Training Series on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a technique used in therapeutic work with those who have experienced trauma and continue to experience strong emotional reactions long after a difficult event has passed. Participants received an excellent example of this therapeutic process as Ms. Lozano performed EMDR with two volunteers who had been under the care of Ms. Lozano prior to the training. Participants reported that observing...

California Five Star Kids News – Fall 2011
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
With the school year in full swing, the California Children’s staff is facilitating four-day programs in our elementary schools. We are happy to work so closely with the Desert Sands Unified School District and their Student Assistance Program to provide preventative education to children that would otherwise not have the ability to attend our programs on the Betty Ford campus. We plan on serving nine schools for the 2011-2012 school year. We truly appreciate the support we receive from the school principals and counselors. In addition to our community and school programs, we are...

Parenting Issues for Parents in Recovery
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
Adults in recovery face many day-to-day challenges, and for those who are parents, maintaining good relationships with children can be both rewarding and daunting at the same time. Addressing parenting issues during various stages of recovery can lead to enhanced quality of the parent-child relationship, especially during adolescence. Research has shown that effective parenting is one of the most critical influences on healthy adolescent development – and for parents in recovery, parenting might be an even more critical factor given children’s heightened risk for problems with...

The 7 C’s
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
(Ages 7 and up) From the book Discovery . . . Finding the Buried Treasure by Jerry Moe This activity goes beyond helping youngsters understand that family addiction is not their fault. While this game helps children know in their hearts that they are not responsible for their parents' problems, it also guides them in learning how they can take good care of themselves. Youngsters come to realize that self-care is ultimately their most important responsibility. DESCRIPTION The facilitator distributes the updated 'Alphabet Soup Revisited' sheets (see example at the end of this...

Bonus Benefits of a Multi-Day Program
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
By David Meggitt, M.A. Candidate The Betty Ford Children’s Programs are an excellent resource for families struggling with addiction and learning about recovery. While our primary focus is on providing excellent, age-appropriate information and skill building to children who have lived or are living with an addicted loved one, we are able to observe children for an extended period over several days. This allows us to provide much more to the families we serve. Our program is an opportunity to observe children socially, emotionally, physically and developmentally. Within the...

Reactive Attachment Disorder Workshop in Texas
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The Texas Children’s Program hosted a day long workshop on September 24th on the topic of Reactive Attachment Disorder. Nancy Kolo, a local therapist specializing in the disorder, presented the information along with a panel of parents who have adopted children with RAD. Fifty professionals were in attendance and the evaluations were excellent. One of the attendees drove from Houston to attend the workshop. She told us that she cannot get this level of training for the price anywhere in her area. Lance Hughes, coordinator for the Professional Training Series is to be commended for...

Keeping Kids Engaged: Effective Facilitation of Educational Support Groups for Children
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
For those of us who run educational support groups for school-age children, having an amazing activity with an incredible message doesn’t always mean that kids will be interested or that they will “get” it. The key to a successful activity is more in the delivery than anything else. Anyone who has ever worked with elementary age children knows that it is not as easy as it sounds. The best laid plans can easily fall apart, and before you know it, you’re a group facilitator that has lost the group. Needless to say, it can feel frustrating to look around at a roomful of people who...

California News
April 17th, 2012 / / Betty Ford Center
The California Children’s Program kicked off the holiday season with our 28th Annual Alumni Reunion. Children from across the country joined together to celebrate their family’s continued recovery. Staff from our Texas and Colorado Children’s Programs joined with California to help make the event special and fun for the kids. In addition, the Children’s Program provided a Holiday Hotline for our alumni children to call. For the twelfth year, an 800 number was provided so that kids could reach out to a familiar voice in their time of need. Over the next several months staff...

Kids’ Bill of Rights
April 17th, 2012 / Doctor's Office / Betty Ford Center
You have the right to be yourself. You have the right to ask for help. You have a right to your own opinions. You have the right to make mistakes. You have the right to your own feelings. You have the right to share your feelings with safe people. You have the right to think good thoughts about yourself. You have the right to expect a safe home. You have the right to dislike someone else’s behaviors. You have the right to choose your own behaviors. You have the right to grow at your own pace. You have the right to know...

Children’s Program News – Colorado
April 17th, 2012 / Doctor's Office / Betty Ford Center
David Meggitt, Colorado Children's Counselor, made a presentation for The Coalition for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (CPCAN) Forum on September 17th, 2010. The focus of the talk was hands-on practical suggestions for teachers and other people working directly with children affected by a loved one's substance abuse. Topics covered included how to identify children in this population; the dos and don'ts of working with these children; and how to build some resilience skills in these children.

National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children is a Resource
April 17th, 2012 / BFC Insights / Betty Ford Center
On April 6th, Elizabeth Devine, Clinical Coordinator for the Betty Ford Center Five Star Kids presented “Children's Perspectives on Addiction in the Home: Considerations for Professionals” via webinar for the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children. Over 500 professionals from across the nation tuned in to see the artwork and writings of children that exemplify the experience of growing up in a home with familial addiction. The PowerPoint for this presentation, full-length webinars and other resources are available free of charge at...

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