RE-RELEASE: What Role Does Spirituality Play in Addiction Recovery? A Conversation with Chaplain Lance Woodley

In this special re-release of The Hanley Effect, we return to a heartfelt conversation with Lance Woodley, Hanley Center’s well-loved Clinical Chaplain. Alongside Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal, Lance shares his personal and professional story and talks about how spirituality can make a real difference in addiction recovery.Lance talks about growing up in Bell Glade, Florida, and how his experiences in music, theology, and clinical social work led him to his role at Hanley. He explains with compassion and insight how spiritually informed therapy can help people in recovery work through grief, find self-worth, and reconnect with meaning.This episode takes a closer look at what it means to heal the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and explains why presence, ritual, and purpose are so important for lasting recovery.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeLance’s JourneyLance talks about his journey from studying music at Bethune-Cookman University to earning advanced degrees in theology and clinical social work. He explains how he combines spirituality with evidence-based care in his work at Hanley Center.Spirituality as a Healing ForceThe conversation looks at how spirituality can help people in treatment work through loss, grief, shame, and identity, which are often at the core of addiction.The Neuroscience of Spiritual PracticeLance talks about research on meditation and prayer, sharing insights from neuroscientists like Andrew Newberg. He explains how spiritual practices can have a positive effect on the brain and help with emotional regulation.The Power of RitualListeners hear about meaningful therapeutic rituals, such as the Stone Key Ritual, that help people express pain, let go of resentment, and move toward forgiveness and healing.Holistic Care at Hanley CenterThis episode shows how Hanley Center combines strong clinical care with spiritual support to create a caring, personalized, and life-changing recovery experience.Key TakeawaysRecovery is more than just stopping substance use; it’s also about finding meaning and self-worth again.Spiritual care and clinical science can work together to support deep and lasting healing.Rituals and being present can help people process pain and build hope.When we treat the whole person, recovery becomes more compassionate and effective.Why We’re Re-Releasing This EpisodeLance Woodley’s wisdom, warmth, and steady presence continue to make a difference in the Hanley community. This re-release gives both new and returning listeners a chance to revisit a conversation that gets to the heart of healing and the lasting power of hope.Learn More:Visit https://www.hanleycenter.org/ or call 844-502-4673 to explore programs and services designed to inspire hope and foster recovery.This episode was originally released on 1/22/2025.