The 3-Legged Stool of Recovery (What Actually Works)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Now Serving .. A Side of Therapy, host Dalton Huckaby sits down with Joe Gutierrez, LMFT and supervisor at Izzo Therapy, to explore what actually works in substance use treatment and recovery.They break down the “3-legged stool” model of recovery — a balanced approach that includes community support, individual therapy, and medication-assisted treatment — and why relying on just one piece often isn’t enough for long-term change.The conversation also covers how substance use is assessed in therapy, why clients often underreport their use due to shame, and the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space. Joe shares insight into co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, and how these impact treatment and risk.You’ll also hear about different recovery paths, including abstinence, formal programs, and harm reduction — emphasizing that change looks different for everyone. Plus, practical strategies for relapse prevention, the role of environment and behavior patterns, and how loved ones can support without enabling.If you or someone you love is navigating substance use, this episode offers a real, compassionate look at what helps people actually move forward.When you’re ready, we’re here to meet you where you are.Joe Gutierrez LMFT, Izzo Therapy, 3 legged stool recovery, addiction recovery, substance use disorder, therapy for addiction, harm reduction, relapse prevention, co-occurring disorders, anxiety and addiction, depression and substance use, mental health podcast, recovery support, naltrexone, vivitrol, therapist podcastJoe Gutierrez LMFT, Izzo Therapy, 3 legged stool recovery, addiction recovery, substance use disorder, therapy for addiction, harm reduction, relapse prevention, co-occurring disorders, anxiety and addiction, depression and substance use, mental health podcast, recovery support, naltrexone, vivitrol, therapist podcast Support the show