Finding Peace in Long-Term Recovery: From Trauma to Transformation with Michelle Risser

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.

Connect with Michelle:

• Website: www.mrisser.com
• Instagram: @michelle_risser

Recovery Tools Discussed:

• Body scan techniques
• Breathwork practices
• Meditation
• Ice pack for nervous system regulation
• Positive self-talk strategies
• Worst-case scenario exercises
• Laughter as a healing tool

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Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & share this episode with a sober woman or someone suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems and negative thought patterns who needs to hear she is not alone. 

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.

And if you haven't read my memoir, grab a copy of Recovering in Recovery: The Life-Changing Joy of Sobriety wherever books are sold.