The Journey Home

Foreword

Prof. Dr. Nicolene Joubert
Counselling Psychologist
Adjunct Professor in Psychology at Houston Christian University, Texas
Senior Academic at South African Theological Seminary (SATS).

For many years the field of addiction recovery has been clouded with stigma, and a lack of understanding the complexities of addictive behavior. People who struggled with their addiction were either easily judged and rejected or enabled to continue destructive behavioral patterns. Both the professional mental health communities, as well as the Christian community made assumptions about addiction based on stereotypes and a reductionist perspective. Treatment and recovery programmes, although partly beneficial, became part of cycles of relapses, disappointments, guilt and blame. Relationships suffer, family structures got damaged and spiritual growth hampered. Alan Strachan was one of my Psychology students who graduated in 2014, and I got to know him well. As a person who struggled with his recovery journey, he was committed to find a way forward. This book is not only the proof of his commitment and perseverance to find wholeness, but of his ingenious search for a deeper level of healing to break through cycles of relapse and disappointments. Alan does not just understand recovery from a theoretical standpoint; but from a deeply human, holistic, compassionate and spiritual standpoint. The Journey Home provides deep clinical insight into the workings of the human brain, mind and psyche, and how they contribute to cycles of addictive behavioral patterns. The author describes addiction as often arising when “individuals are disconnected from their true selves, leading to feelings of emptiness or pain.” The disconnection may stem from trauma, unmet needs or societal pressures. Addiction serves to escape the inner discomfort or sooth the pain. Substances became substitutes for genuine connection and self-understanding. Cycles of shame and isolation occur. The Journey Home provides a breakthrough strategy for reconnecting with the authentic self. The recovery strategy is based on a holistic approach that addresses mind, body, soul and spirit. Self-awareness forms a key component, and the journey requires self-compassion, and acceptance. Recovery is not a matter of willpower, but deep reflection and understanding the role of the brain.  The brain plays a central role in the formation of addictive behavioral patterns, and a reset of the central nervous system is required for a successful recovery journey. The brain is capable of change due to neuroplasticity, and new habits can be formed. It means shifting from automatic survival driven responses to intentional value driven choices. Practical examples and applications are provided that demonstrates how the strategy is effectuated. The workbook that is included serves as a comprehensive guidebook for the journey. It is clear that addiction    is    deeply    rooted    in    the    brain's    adaptive    systems.    However, these same systems also provide the foundation for healing and transformation through intentional, repeated change. I recommend the book and recovery journey to every person who is caught up in addictive cycles of behavior that cause pain and isolation. The journey home represents reconnecting with your authentic self and developing your God-given identity to the glory of His name. Jesus Christ is the Redeemer of our souls and always present with you on this journey. Reconnecting with your true self enhances spiritual development and becoming more like Jesus.

Prof. Dr. Nicolene Joubert