On August 13–15, I attended the Multiple Pathways Recovery Conference in New Haven, Connecticut. Affectionately known as ‘MPRC’, this conference is a gathering of the nation’s leading recovery leaders to share and educate one another about the many different pathways, methods, practices, rituals, programs, and belief systems recoveries can use to enhance their recovery journey and sustain long-term recovery from alcohol and other addictions.
This event felt extra special because one of the major sponsors of the conference was Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR), an organization that is near and dear to me. On July 14, 2021, I received the Certificate of Designation Recovery Coach Professional (RCP) for demonstrating the Art and Science of Recovery Coaching through Knowledge, Skill, and Experience from CCAR. It was my first accomplishment since becoming sober on December 2, 2018, and the start of my path towards becoming a holistic healer.
What a powerful three days MPRC was. The conference consisted of 5 Keynote speakers and 6 breakout sessions, as well as special events and opportunities for service. The event had too many wonderful speakers to recount here, but I will dive into two.
I learned so much in the three days I was there. One of the more meaningful breakout sessions I attended was “The Wounded Healer.” The concept of the wounded healer was first introduced by Carl Jung in 1951. He believed that the disease of the soul could be the best possible form of training for a healer. Individuals who deal effectively with their trauma are able to recognize, transcend, and transform their pain into healing. The “scar” remains, but reflection heals. What fascinates me as a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous is that Carl Jung had a big impact on the start of AA.
The archetype of the wounded healer is rooted in the Greek myth of Chiron. Chiron was wounded by Hercules’ arrow and suffered unbearable pain for the rest of his life. He was able to transcend and transform his suffering in order to heal others, becoming a legendary healer. Chiron’s archetype resonates across time and cultures because it speaks to the universality of human suffering, healing, and growth. It teaches us that our wounds are not weaknesses to be hidden, but sources of strength that can lead us to profound understanding, compassion, and wisdom. Furthermore, the Chiron archetype illustrates the transformation journey of turning personal suffering into a catalyst for healing and growth. Just as Chiron’s pain led him to seek remedies, individuals can use their own struggles as impetus to explore healing modalities, both for themselves and as a means to guide others. Chiron’s story emphasizes that true healing is often found through the willingness to confront one’s own pain and vulnerability.
The last of the five keynote speakers that presented at the conference, was Kelvin Young. As Kelvin states in his bio: “Kelvin Young is a Certified Sound Healer and Owner of Kelvin Young, LLC. He is also a person in sustained recovery which means Kelvin hasn’t used alcohol or any other drug to cope with his mental and emotional distress since March 6th 2009. Kelvin received his recovery coaching training at CT Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) and Recovery Support Specialist (RSS) certification at Recovery University. (Advocacy Unlimited) The first time Kelvin was exposed to sound healing, he discovered the sounds of the crystal and Tibetan singing bowls and gongs calmed his mind, relaxed his body and nourished his soul.”
He spoke about his recovery journey, and how he uses the crystal singing bowls and other sound instruments to heal. He then led a sound bath session to show the audience the powerfulness of the tool. How amazing it was that Kelvin was able to share this modality, that is near and dear to my heart, with a group of passionate people. It further validates sound bath therapy, as a modality to not only facilitate recovery, but help with stress, anxiety, pain reduction and more.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway that I got from the conference is that in whatever hat I am wearing, whether it be recovery coach, health coach, sound bath healer, or breathwork facilitator, I must meet my clients where they are at. Everyone is unique, and I can use my tools, knowledge, skills and intuition to bring them to a state of harmony of the mind, body and spirit.
Follow us @HarmoniousHealingByLisa