Episode Details

In this powerful episode of Confident Sober Women, I sit down with Michelle Risser, LISW-S, a therapist, coach, and consultant with 24 years of sobriety. Michelle shares her journey from early recovery to becoming a certified EMDR therapist, while navigating life's challenges including trauma, a car accident, and breast cancer. Learn practical strategies for emotional regulation, nervous system healing, and building a thriving life in long-term recovery.

Episode Highlights:

• Michelle's journey to sobriety at age 26 and breaking the family cycle of addiction
• Transforming trauma into purpose: Becoming an EMDR therapist after a life-changing car accident
• Practical tools for managing emotions and regulating the nervous system in recovery
• The power of routine and self-trust in maintaining long-term sobriety
• Innovative approaches to changing negative thought patterns, including "ridiculously over-the-top self-talk"
• Navigating life's challenges while maintaining professional responsibilities and sobriety
• The importance of body awareness and somatic healing in recovery

Key Takeaways:

1. Recovery is a layered approach combining different healing modalities
2. The importance of addressing trauma for sustainable recovery
3. Practical strategies for managing emotions without substances
4. How to build self-trust through consistent daily routines
5. The role of humor and perspective in emotional regulation

Resources Mentioned:

• EMDR Therapy
• Meditation practices for recovery
• Somatic healing techniques
• Nervous system regulation strategies

Guest Bio:

Michelle Risser, LCSW-S, is a therapist, coach, and consultant with 24 years of sobriety. She specializes in helping professionals increase their impact while decreasing burnout. As a certified EMDR therapist and consultant, she brings both personal and professional expertise to trauma healing and recovery work.

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Oh, and by the way, if you didn’t know, my remote Neurofeedback Therapy program is up and running. Learn more here! Learn more about EMDR therapy, EMDR Intensives and Remote Neurofeedback.

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And if you haven't read my memoir, grab a copy today and maybe a second one for a friend. There is so much hope in recovery, and I shared my story so raw and vulnerable so that others would know they aren't alone and that there is a way to live well, manage relationships, parent your kids, and have a healthy body, all while staying sober. Grab a copy of Recovering in Recovery: The Life-Changing Joy of Sobriety wherever books are sold.