Redefining Addiction Treatment :Dr. Sara Koenig: Compassion, Transparency, and Trauma-Informed Care

In this compelling episode of Finding New Waters, Dr. Sara Koenig, founder and medical director of Triangle Wellness and Recovery, shares her journey from academic medicine to addiction recovery. Dr. Koenig discusses her philosophy of trauma-informed, person-centered care and the need for compassionate, stigma-free treatment that truly meets each patient where they are. Drawing on years of experience, Dr. Koenig emphasizes the importance of addressing shame, setting realistic recovery goals, and building supportive family dynamics. Her approach is rooted in honesty, transparency, and a commitment to fostering real, lasting change in her clients’ lives. [00:00] Introduction: Welcome and episode overview. [01:00] Meet Dr. Sarah Koenig: Dr. Koenig shares her career path from academic medicine to addiction treatment. [04:00] Trauma and Addiction: Why trauma-informed care is essential in treating addiction. [08:00] Overcoming Stigma: The power of reducing shame and stigma for sustainable recovery. [12:00] Guilt vs. Shame in Recovery: Dr. Koenig explains how guilt can be constructive, while shame can hinder healing. [18:00] Family Involvement: How family dynamics and setting boundaries play critical roles in recovery. [24:00] Person-Centered Care: The importance of respecting each patient’s story and adapting care to meet their needs. [30:00] The Power of Honest Communication: Why transparency and open dialogue are key to successful treatment. [36:00] Final Thoughts and Resources: Dr. Koenig shares advice and information on how to reach Triangle Wellness and Recovery. Trauma-Informed Approach: The necessity of addressing trauma to fully support addiction recovery. Reducing Shame and Stigma: Dr. Koenig’s insights into the destructive power of shame and how to combat it. Family Dynamics in Recovery: How family support, boundary-setting, and open communication aid in long-term recovery. Person-Centered Treatment: Focusing on the individual’s unique experiences and needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Transparency and Honesty: How compassionate, direct communication can help clients trust the process and sustain their commitment to healing. Dr. Sarah KoenigFounder & Medical Director, Triangle Wellness and RecoveryDr. Sarah Koenig is a board-certified addiction medicine physician and the founder of Triangle Wellness and Recovery in Cary, North Carolina. With a background in academic medicine, Dr. Koenig transitioned to addiction treatment, where she specializes in trauma-informed, patient-centered care. Her approach is focused on reducing stigma, integrating mental health with addiction treatment, and fostering long-term healing for both individuals and families. Triangle Wellness and Recovery: https://www.twrnc.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw?si=f485f70900204da4 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn&feature=share Google Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZmI2YTk3NC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Stay connected with us for more episodes that provide valuable resources for families navigating the complexities of supporting a loved one struggling with substance use or mental health. #AddictionRecovery #TraumaInformedCare #MentalHealth #SarahKoenig #FindingNewWatersPodcast #FamilySupport #ReducingStigma #LongTermRecovery