Beyond Sobriety-The Neuroscience of Addiction with Chris Chandler

Many betrayed partners are told that recovery requires sobriety, accountability, disclosure, and empathy, but they are not always given a clear understanding of what is happening in the addicted brain or why meaningful change takes time. In this conversation, Chris Chandler brings a neuroscience-based lens to compulsive sexual behavior, drawing from his clinical work with thousands of men, his collaboration with Dr. Patrick Carnes on Fulbright-supported sexual addiction research, and his role with the American Foundation for Addiction Research.Chris will explain how attachment wounds, trauma, shame, and nervous system dysregulation can shape maladaptive coping strategies long before adulthood. Using a simple model of the brainstem, limbic system, and prefrontal cortex, he will help partners understand why early recovery often requires intense stabilization, structure, repetition, and community before deeper emotional and relational healing becomes possible.This discussion will also explore Carnes’ view of recovery as a long-term process: the first one to two years often focus on sobriety, honesty, accountability, and behavioral stabilization, which can then open the door to deeper attachment work, grief, empathy, intimacy, and relational repair. The goal is not behavior management alone, but restored connection.Contact Info:Website: www.breathtobones.comSchedule a Consultation with Chris: https://breath-to bones.cal.com/chris/consultation