Host Emma sits down with Mary Beth O'Connor, author of Junkie to Judge, for a candid conversation about trauma, addiction, and the many routes to recovery. Mary Beth shares her personal arc, from early childhood trauma and escalating substance use to sobriety, trauma therapy, law school and ultimately a federal judgeship and emphasizes that addiction is a mental health disorder that often coexists with untreated trauma. They challenge the “12-step only” mindset, discuss the realities of relapse, and highlight the importance of individualised treatment plans, wraparound supports, and realistic, compassionate expectations for people in early recovery.

Connect with Mary Beth here

Website : https://junkietojudge.com/

X/Twitter: @MaryBethO_

Bluesky: marybethoconnor

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-beth-o-connor-8aaa4b121/

Book: From Junkie to Judge: One Woman's Triumph Over Trauma and Addiction

Continue Your Journey

Thank you so much for listening to The Healing Odyssey.If this episode has helped you, please consider sharing it with someone who might need to hear it today.

FREE RESOURCE: MY COMFORT KIT

Create your own collection of comfort, connection and hope with this free interactive wellbeing guide, including your own personal Back-to-Me Box.

Download My Comfort Kit free here:

evolve-recovery-comfort-kit.subscribepage.io

Join Dopamine Without Danger

A calm, private community for recovery, ADHD, burnout and emotional wellbeing.

First month just £3 with code ONEMONTH3

https://dopamine-without-danger.mn.co/landing/

Read AA Is Not the Only Way

Real stories of recovery, ADHD, trauma and finding your own way forward.

https://emmagardner.uk

Support the Podcast

If you'd like to help keep these conversations free:

https://buymeacoffee.com/emmagardnerwrites

Be a Guest

Therapist, coach, researcher, author or someone with lived experience?I'd love to hear from you.

emma@evolve-recovery.co.uk

Until next time... be gentle with yourself, stay curious, and keep finding your own way forward