Colleague Down the Hall

Tune in to The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast for an insightful conversation with Michael Chiapone, LCSW, as he explores addiction and recovery through the unique lens of music and film. This episode sheds light on the power of creative tools in therapy, the importance of reducing stigma, and how understanding shame and connection can transform treatment approaches.

“Get back to a bigger ‘What is this’? If this person was your patient, what are they trying to say? Where are they? Where are they in the stages of change? Where are they in a cycle of addiction? And to try to tease out those things in hearing some of these pop culture or songs that we all know. So then the goal is, especially in the group process, in the class, by being able to identify those things that we can then move forward and approach that person in a more welcoming manner, instead of a ‘look at them, they're doing it again’. Or ‘why can't they stop,’ to kind of try to create a better understanding, with more empathy about where this person might be coming from” - Michael

Here are the key takeaways:

• Using Music and Film in Addiction Recovery – Michael Chiapone discusses his unique approach to helping individuals with substance use disorders by incorporating music and film to foster deeper understanding, empathy, and engagement in therapy.

• Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction – The conversation highlights the importance of moving beyond judgmental perspectives on addiction, recognizing it as a complex issue rather than just a matter of willpower, and promoting a more compassionate, person-centered approach.

• Challenges in Treating Substance Use Disorders – The discussion covers the evolving nature of addiction, particularly with the rise of fentanyl and other potent substances, and the need for adaptable, evidence-based treatment approaches.

• The Role of Policy in Social Justice and Mental Health – Michael shares his involvement in policy discussions affecting social work and mental health, emphasizing the need for professionals to stay informed and advocate for policies that protect vulnerable populations.

• The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Health Professionals – The conversation stresses the need for therapists and social workers to prioritize self-care, avoid burnout, and acknowledge the emotional demands of their work while maintaining personal well-being.

About the Michael Chiappione:

Michael Chiappone, LCSW, is a seasoned social worker, educator, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment. As the CEO and Founder of CHI Professional Development, he creates and delivers continuing education courses for social workers, mental health professionals, and community advocates, focusing on practical skills and real-world applications.

Michael has dedicated his career to working with individuals facing homelessness, mental illness, and substance use disorders, serving as the Director of a Substance Use Disorder clinic and previously holding leadership roles at Hope House Ministries. He is passionate about teaching clinicians how to integrate evidence-based practices, ethical decision-making, and advocacy into their work.

Beyond clinical work, Michael is deeply engaged in policy discussions affecting social justice. Through his WTF: Policies That Threaten Social Justice series, he explores how shifts in legislation impact marginalized communities and challenges social workers to take an active role in advocacy and systemic change.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Michael explores the intersections of mindfulness, recovery, and personal growth through innovative projects like CHI Golf, a brand that promotes mental clarity and focus on and off the course. He is also developing a Recovery Chatbot Website, designed to provide digital peer support and track progress for individuals in recovery.

Connect with Michael:

Website: www.chiprodevelopment.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chi_pro_development/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chi_pro_development

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chi-professional-development-inc/

Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: www.CollabOasis.com/FCC_live

Connect with Jeanene:

*Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: https://collaboasis.com/4keysworkbook

*Learn more about clinical consultation groups: https://collaboasis.com/

*Join my free therapist Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/oasispcgt

*Connect on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeanene-wolfe-lcsw-64042220a/