We have been right where you are.
The Family Recovery Course (FRC) is a three-part series of peer-led interactive educational trainings for parents or guardians whose child, at any stage of life, has struggled with addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Part 1 – Addiction 101: Exploring this complex disease.
Part 2 – Family Foundations: Understanding the family disease of addiction.
Part 3 – Family Recovery: Building a recovery plan for life.
Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 12 participants in each course.
Each course is led by two trained instructors who have personal experience with an addicted family member.
The FRC was developed in collaboration with licensed clinicians currently working in the fields of addiction treatment and behavioral health.
There is no charge to participate in the Family Recovery Course.
From A. Michael Blanche, MSS, LCSW, the Co-Founder & Chief Clinical Officer of Ethos Treatment, LLC, and Be a Part of the Conversation’s Clinical Advisor
“The Family Recovery Course is a vital resource for families impacted by addiction. There is tremendous therapeutic benefit when parents learn in a safe environment surrounded by others with shared experience. The peer-led FRC provides that trusted space in which families can heal.
“When parents take the Family Recovery Course, join a Parent Partnership meeting, or attend a Be a Part of the Conversation community program, they cultivate a community of support, understanding, and connection to a wealth of resources.”
Be a Part of the Conversation programs do not provide behavioral health advice and are for informational purposes only. Our programs are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding substance use disorders or related family needs. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen in any Be a Part of the Conversation program or video.
Is the Family Recovery Course the right fit for you?
• Do you have a child (any age, and regardless of where they are living) who has struggled with drugs and/or alcohol use?
• Has worrying about their safety, their behaviors and their future been overwhelming?
• Do you want to gain knowledge and understanding about why your child uses substances and how this has impacted you and your family?
• Is learning about tools that build healthier relationships important to you?
• Do you want to stop the chaos and reclaim your family?
• Is healing and recovery important to you and your family’s future?
You do not have to identify with all the above, but if you can relate to some of these experiences, this course is right for you.
Goals for the Course
• Understand how and why our loved ones have become addicted.
• Gain insight into what has or is happening to my child.
• Gain insight into what has or is happening to me and my family.
• Learn how we can heal as a family.
• Understand why healing and recovering for life is important for me and my family’s future.
Sponsor a family!
A suggested donation of $100 will allow more individuals to benefit from the Family Recovery Course. Any amount is welcome, but please do not let a donation keep you from registering.
Be a Part of the Conversation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that relies on contributions from individuals, foundations, municipalities and corporations. EIN# 47-1233578
🗓 Find an upcoming Family Recovery Course
Three-part courses are posted on the date of the first part. Click on the post to see dates for all three parts.
Please note: A maximum of 12 participants can register for each 3-part course. Additional courses will be added, so please check for updates.
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Monday, January 8, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Thursday, January 25, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Monday, March 4, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Monday, May 6, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
💻 Online Family Recovery Course (Part 1)
Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Anonymous feedback from Family Recovery Course participants:
“These 3 meetings have changed the trajectory of my new life as the parent of an addict.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed this. Presenters were knowledgeable and could relate because they have lived it.”
“I can take actions that will increase the chance that my family member with SUD will choose to enter and stay in recovery.”
“I am very happy I signed up for this course. It really taught me about what my son is going through, that my feelings as a parent that I am having are normal and gave me tools and much better understanding.”
Meet Our Instructors
Meet Our Clinical Advisor
Meet the FRC Coordinator
Learn about Parent Partnership:
Thank you to the following Community Partners for supporting the Family Recovery Course!
Scholarships & Subsidies
Development & Administrative Support
Matt Wagner
Matt’s recovery story began when he realized that he was powerless to help his son. He had to let go of the illusion of control and let the professionals do their job. He found that the best way to help himself was to help others. Despite feeling underqualified, he joined his wife in starting the Phoenixville support group. Sharing mistakes and successes with others on similar journeys has buoyed his personal strength and helped him live out the essence of the Serenity Prayer.
Matt’s recovery story began when he realized that he was powerless to help his son. He had to let go of the illusion of control and let the professionals do their job. He found that the best way to help himself was to help others. Despite feeling underqualified, he joined his wife in starting the Phoenixville support group. Sharing mistakes and successes with others on similar journeys has buoyed his personal strength and helped him live out the essence of the Serenity Prayer.“When we were asked to start a Phoenixville group, we felt that we didn’t have nearly enough experience to lead. What we found was that every person in the group has something to teach and something to learn. It’s invaluable to connect with people in similar circumstances. I have gained so much perspective and clarity from the wonderful people in our group – they help me ‘stay in my lane’ so that I can fully appreciate and enjoy my son and the new family we have become.”
email: mwagner@bobwagner.com
phone: (610) 637-2410
Matt has been attending Parent Partnership meetings since 2018 and has been leading the Phoenixville meeting with his wife, Jenn, since November of 2019.
Jenn Wagner
Jenn started her journey to recovery in 2018 when she and her husband walked into a parent support group after checking their son into an in-patient facility for substance use disorder. For the first time, she felt they were not alone – that others understood what they were going through. In 2019, they were asked to start a support group for the families of young men in the long-term therapeutic community where their son was living. Jenn has found that the group gives her a continuing education in the resilience and compassion of parents who love their kids but are also learning to prioritize themselves.
“When this journey started, we had no idea how to navigate our frightening and unfamiliar situation. We started educating ourselves about substance use disorder and connecting with other parents. The West Chester parent support group was our lifeline. Over time I learned that it was okay to be concerned for our son, AND it was okay to take care of myself.”
email: mjsewagner@gmail.com
phone: (610) 637-8659
Jenn has been attending Parent Partnership meetings since 2018 and has been leading the Phoenixville meeting with her husband, Matt, since November of 2019.
Lori Quintavalle
Lori is the mother of a son and a daughter. Her son started using substances at the age of 13. The long, hard struggle shattered their family. Lori and her husband, Ed, found parent groups in 2010. They attended Be a Part of the Conversation education programs from the beginning.
Lori is the Leader of the Chestnut Hill Parent Partnership meeting. Also, Lori started the Mama Bears, a group of moms who bring dinner every other Friday night to Interim House, a women’s residential drug treatment program. The has been visiting Interim House since 2012. Lori and the moms have learned so much from the “group shares” with these courageous women.
Lori feels that education, parent support groups and the wonderful friends she met in those groups helped her get through her son’s struggle with substance use. Service to others has always been an important part of her recovery. It was so important for her husband and her to attend parent groups and education programs together to hear the same message and be a united front. These groups truly saved their marriage.
email: lwq224@aol.com
phone: (267) 808-1716
Lori has been attending Parent Partnership meetings since 2010.
Chris King
Chris King is the accounting department administrator for Lincoln Investment, a securities broker dealer located in Ft. Washington, PA, and has been with the firm for 27 years. In addition to her accounting responsibilities, she co-manages LINCOLN CARES , the company’s charitable giving sector which is funded by employee contributions that are matched by Lincoln and donated to employee nominated charities.
Born in Philadelphia, Chris now lives in Cheltenham Township where she raised two daughters. She earned her BA in Psychology from West Chester University.
“I’ve had the good fortune to experience the bountiful impact BPOC has on communities and individuals alike. BPOC is an invaluable resource for learning about substance use disorder and works diligently to reduce the stigma surrounding it. But more than an educational arm, BPOC extends an understanding and warm embrace to audiences and individuals that is immeasurable. I’m honored to be a part of the team!”
email: justfloat811@yahoo.com
phone: (215) 565-6725
Chris has been attending Parent Partnership meetings since 2015.
Connie Lacon
“Hi! My name is Connie Lacon. I am active in the Rosemont parents group. I have been going to Parent Partnership meetings for over 11 years. I am the mother of seven wonderful children. My second son suffers from substance use disorder. I am grateful that he is in long term recovery. It has been a crazy journey where I had to step out of my mom role and set and keep boundaries to protect my other children and myself. I do this with LOVE and more love. It is not easy but with the support of these groups and the love of family and friends I continue to educate myself and help others who are struggling the way I did.
“I love to garden, walk my dogs. I love the beach and the mountains. I am blessed with 2 beautiful grandchildren whom I adore.”
email: cool_mom07@hotmail.com
phone: (215) 990-6465
Connie has been attending Parent Partnership meetings since 2012.
Tom Duggan
Tom and his wife have four children, one of whom has a substance use disorder. The situation at home deteriorated over the years, reaching a crisis in 2017. In a state of ignorance, desperation and fear, they began attending Parent Partnership meetings in Hatboro. The meetings provided indispensable support and assistance navigating the complex recovery ecosystem. After an intervention , their son entered treatment and extended care, beginning his recovery.
Tom and his wife have four children, one of whom has a substance use disorder. The situation at home deteriorated over the years, reaching a crisis in 2017. In a state of ignorance, desperation and fear, they began attending Parent Partnership meetings in Hatboro. The meetings provided indispensable support and assistance navigating the complex recovery ecosystem. After an intervention , their son entered treatment and extended care, beginning his recovery.Years of dysfunction, stress and chaos had taken a significant toll on their family. Parent Partnership meetings provided consistent encouragement and support as family relationships and integrity were rebuilt. Family recovery has truly been a blessing.
“Recovery is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get. The human brain has 60,00 to 70,000 thoughts per day, and most of them are wrong. Best to keep an open mind.”
email: tomdgn@icloud.com
phone: 215-901-1176
Tom has been attending the Hatboro Parent Partnership meeting since 2017.
Jim Young
Jim is a father of five, several of whom have struggled with substance use as adults. Tragically, one son died over 10 years ago of a heroin overdose. Gratefully, however, the other three are in various stages of recovery and are doing well.
Jim is a father of five, several of whom have struggled with substance use as adults. Tragically, one son died over 10 years ago of a heroin overdose. Gratefully, however, the other three are in various stages of recovery and are doing well.Jim’s journey started over 20 years ago when a concerned friend of one of his son’s called to let him know that his son was struggling with substance use. It was a shock at the time, but it explained so much about the chaos that Jim and his son were experiencing together. Since that time, Jim has attended a countless number of support group meetings, including Nar-Anon, AA and the Limerick Parent Partnership group.
“One of my greatest challenges has been learning how to support a loved one’s recovery without contributing to their addictions. Attending various support group meetings has provided me with invaluable insights into the many issues related to substance use disorders and the tools and resources that are available to both the addict and the addict’s loved ones.”
email: threesticks1952@gmail.com
phone: 484-883-3819
Jim attends the Limerick Parent Partnership meeting.
Joyce Williams
Joyce is the mom of two wonderful daughters. One struggled with substance use and is now in long-term recovery. Joyce’s recovery journey began in 2012 when, desperate for answers, she began attending parent support groups. She found other parents and families who shared their experiences and knowledge, helping each other find a path to their own recovery. Joyce discovered that being of service to others was a great source of healing and she is now a co-facilitator of the Limerick Parent Partnership group.
Joyce is the mom of two wonderful daughters. One struggled with substance use and is now in long-term recovery. Joyce’s recovery journey began in 2012 when, desperate for answers, she began attending parent support groups. She found other parents and families who shared their experiences and knowledge, helping each other find a path to their own recovery. Joyce discovered that being of service to others was a great source of healing and she is now a co-facilitator of the Limerick Parent Partnership group.“The hardest lesson I learned about having a child struggling with substance use was that I had to learn to love her in a different way. I needed to stop rescuing and enabling, while finding ways to provide the support and love that could lead her to recovery. The parents I connected with in support groups guided me in extending the right lifelines to my daughter. I am forever grateful.”
email: joycebwilliams@verizon.net
phone: 484-995-2556
Joyce attends the Limerick Parent Partnership meeting.
Sue Crathern
Sue is the parent of a son who struggled with addiction through high school and college up until the time of his passing at the age of twenty-six. During this time, Sue found a local parent support group meeting and became an active member. This was the beginning of her awakening to the fact that addiction is a disease and not a moral failing and that it was possible to love her son, even if he was in active addiction.
“At the parent support group meetings, I found other parents not only coping with their child’s addiction, but thriving and finding joy in their own lives! Through their lived experience, these parents were a wealth of knowledge about the various types of resources available and they completely understood the stress and fear I felt as I made decisions about how to best help my son. I learned to show love to my son in a different way and in the process learned to release the guilt, shame and anger I was holding onto that was causing me so much pain and robbing my life of joy.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I look forward to helping other parents and caregivers learn about the disease of addiction and find a community of understanding and support by attending this Family Recovery Course.”
email: sue.crathern@gmail.com
phone: 267-481-3757
Carl Bader
Carl started his family recovery journey in 2018, after realizing his son suffered from substance use disorder, a disease that was having a profoundly negative impact on his entire family. Starting with no understanding of addiction, Carl sought knowledge through seminars, support groups, reading, etc. This became the foundation of his personal recovery journey.
Carl started his family recovery journey in 2018, after realizing his son suffered from substance use disorder, a disease that was having a profoundly negative impact on his entire family. Starting with no understanding of addiction, Carl sought knowledge through seminars, support groups, reading, etc. This became the foundation of his personal recovery journey.Carl and his wife Sharon are regular attendees at the Exton Parents’ Support Group.
“After nearly a decade of living as two disjointed families of three, finally, through working individual recovery programs and gaining perspective about what addiction did to our family, we are once again a functioning family of four.
“I’ve found clarity in gaining understanding about addiction. The knowledge shared by countless people who have walked a similar path has helped me greatly in my personal recovery journey and acceptance of my family’s challenge living with the disease.
“I’ve found comfort in community. Many people have supported me in countless ways, easing the inherent uncertainty of this family disease. Through recovery, my family and I have turned a chaotic existence into meaningful life where love and joy and relationship can once again thrive… …while we take it one day at a time.
“My hope is that I can help others in their recovery journey as so many have, and continue to, help me in mine.”
email: cbader@aviom.com
phone: 610-999-7856
Carl has been attending the Exton Parent Partnership meeting on Wednesday nights since 2018.
Gail Campbell
Gail is the parent of 4 adult children and one granddaughter. Her youngest son was her qualifier that started her journey into family recovery. She has been active in the Rosemont Parent Partnership group since 2012. She is also in longterm recovery of 35+ years.
Gail is the parent of 4 adult children and one granddaughter. Her youngest son was her qualifier that started her journey into family recovery. She has been active in the Rosemont Parent Partnership group since 2012. She is also in longterm recovery of 35+ years.Gail is a registered nurse and has worked in Emergency Nursing at a local community hospital for 32 years. She also does camp nursing in the Poconos in the summer.
“I was angry, full of fear and felt helpless and hopeless when I started in parent groups. I learned how to set boundaries and learned how my behaviors were contributing to my son’s substance use. I continue to attend my home group in Rosemont to keep me humbled, offer my experience, strength and hope to new parents, and to stay on my journey of recovery when my loved ones struggle.”
email: gailfcampbell@gmail.com
phone: (610) 585-0736
Gail has been attending the Rosemont Parent Partnership meeting on Wednesday nights since 2012.
Sharon Bader
Sharon began her recovery journey in 2018 when planning an intervention for her son, then age 19. She and her husband, Carl, have been active participants in the Exton Parent Support group ever since. Attending meetings, webinars and programs has become the foundation of her ongoing recovery work. Sharon is passionate about supporting others through unanticipated parenting challenges associated with addiction, recognizing that guilt and shame, or simply not knowing where to turn, are often barriers to reaching out for help.
Sharon began her recovery journey in 2018 when planning an intervention for her son, then age 19. She and her husband, Carl, have been active participants in the Exton Parent Support group ever since. Attending meetings, webinars and programs has become the foundation of her ongoing recovery work. Sharon is passionate about supporting others through unanticipated parenting challenges associated with addiction, recognizing that guilt and shame, or simply not knowing where to turn, are often barriers to reaching out for help.“It was a rude awakening when we realized that the chaos in our family was due to addiction. As we started to plan an intervention, we educated ourselves with as much information as possible, and started attending the Exton Parent Support Group. At our very first meeting, I found comfort, acceptance, and support in the fellowship of parents on similar journeys. Throughout this journey, I’ve grown while continually learning about the disease and witnessing the struggles and successes of other families. I’m grateful that my recovery has led me to become more compassionate, understanding and live a more healthy and full life.”
email: sharon@baders.net
phone: 610-324-0425
Sharon has been attending the Exton Parent Partnership meeting on Wednesday nights since 2018.
Marijayne Wenk
Marijayne is the mother of a family in which several people are in long-term recovery. In 2006 while attending Alanon meetings, she met many parents who, like herself, were seeking support to manage their experience as parents of addicts. In 2007, she learned of a newly formed Support Group in Plymouth Meeting, which had started specifically to guide family members like herself.
Marijayne is the mother of a family in which several people are in long-term recovery. In 2006 while attending Alanon meetings, she met many parents who, like herself, were seeking support to manage their experience as parents of addicts. In 2007, she learned of a newly formed Support Group in Plymouth Meeting, which had started specifically to guide family members like herself.While attending these meetings, she found many families who shared similar experiences. She felt the group was very informative and helpful and gave her a community to seek compassion and guidance.
Over the past 15 years, Marijayne has continued attending these meetings, becoming a group leader and dedicating herself to giving back to other parents with children in active addiction and recovery.
Although her role, as well as the names and faces, may have changed many times over during her lengthy tenure, her love for what has become a continuously growing community remains a constant in her life.
From the beginning of her family’s journey in 2004, Marijayne has been eager to learn more about substance use disorder and its impact on family systems and the individual mental health of family members walking alongside someone in addiction/recovery. To this end, Marijayne has sought out and participated in educational programs for family members available through numerous treatment centers, including but not limited to the Hazelden-Betty Ford and Caron Treatment Centers.
As a single parent raising four children, she is deeply grateful for the support of these programs and communities. And so, she has decided to use this experience and knowledge to benefit families facing similar challenges. Accordingly, she has now earned several certifications in the Addiction and Mental Health field.
She is a Certified Family Recovery Specialist, a Family Support Group Leader for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and a Family Connections Leader. She is also certified in Motivational Interviewing and CRAFT, a technique to support significant others in guiding loved ones towards seeking recovery and as a Parent Coach for Partnership to End Addiction.
Throughout her career as an attorney, Marijayne has always been motivated to help others. Her work in addiction and mental health is a natural extension of her desire to help improve the lives of suffering families. Using her lived experience, training, and love as a beacon to lighten the load and light the way, she hopes to ease their suffering as others once did for her and her family.
email: teamwenk@gmail.com
phone: 610-608-8528
Laura D'Uva
Laura is a parent of someone who seeks sobriety and recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and mental/emotional challenges.
Along with being a mom of four grown children, she has recently become a new Nana to her first granddaughter!
Laura’s previous career was as an early childhood education teacher. She has also taught child and adult religious education and marriage preparation classes.
Now, after attending parent groups for over ten years, she became a Certified Family Recovery Specialist (CFRS) in order to share her lived experience with families who need education and support.
“When addiction came into our lives, we needed help, guidance and support. As an educator, I sought to learn as much as I could about this baffling disease which impacted the entire family. I am a profound believer of hope even in the midst of a crisis or dark time. I follow my faith and quote my favorite band, ‘Hope is the Anthem of my soul!’”
email: iluvlabman@aol.com
phone: 215-327-8062
Laura has been attending the Hatboro Parent Partnership meeting since 2014.
Carmine D'Uva
Carmine, as a parent of someone with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD), has been attending parent support group meetings for over 10 years. Being a more senior member of the group, he volunteers to chair weekly meetings as a lead and/or co-chair. A vital part of his parent recovery is choosing to give back to the community of parents or grandparents of loved ones living with an SUD. He provides and shares his recovery journey experiences to the meeting’s attendees as an act of service to others.
Carmine, as a parent of someone with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD), has been attending parent support group meetings for over 10 years. Being a more senior member of the group, he volunteers to chair weekly meetings as a lead and/or co-chair. A vital part of his parent recovery is choosing to give back to the community of parents or grandparents of loved ones living with an SUD. He provides and shares his recovery journey experiences to the meeting’s attendees as an act of service to others.email: ilabman@aol.com
phone: 215-630-6126
Carmine has been attending the Hatboro Parent Partnership meeting since 2014.
Judy Hirsh, JD, CFRS
Judy Hirsh is the Director of Community Engagement for Be a Part of the Conversation (BPOC). The mother of a son in recovery, Judy brings a diverse background to BPOC.
Professionally, she practiced law for four years, has practiced real estate valuation and managed a family business for 24 years and served as a budget analyst for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. She has worked as a Neighborhood Mediator with the Good Shepherd Mediation Program in Philadelphia, PA. Judy is a Certified Family Recovery Specialist (CFRS), which is someone who assists families impacted by a loved one’s substance use disorder.
Judy also ran a spirited campaign for the Pennsylvania State Senate in 2008, garnering nearly 49% of the vote against a 32 year incumbent.
Judy has also been deeply involved in her community, serving as board president of the Londonderry School in Harrisburg, PA for 5 years and leading the development and construction of a new facility. She has also provided various leadership roles for several organizations, including:
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Emily’s Entourage
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Lower Merion Democratic Committee
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PAWS – Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society
Judy is a graduate of Penn State University with a BA and MPA and holds a Juris Doctor (JD) from the Dickinson School of Law. She is married (Larry) and is the mother of Max, Alix and Jack and resides in Blue Bell, PA with her family and three dogs.
email: judy@conversation.zone
phone: 717-648-9800
Kim Porter, CFRS
Kim is the parent of two adult children, one of whom is in long-term recovery, which led her to explore the impact of addiction on individuals and their families. She is also the daughter of someone in long-term recovery. Kim has been attending support group meetings since 2010 and helped to start the Hatboro Parent Partnership meeting in 2011, which she still attends regularly, despite living in Newtown Square, Delaware County (because it’s that good! ).
).Kim is the Executive Director of Be a Part of the Conversation. Her Certified Family Recovery Specialist (CFRS) credential was created for adults who have been directly impacted by another person’s substance use disorder. The CFRS shares their lived experience with other families to provide recovery support services.
”When my family was impacted by addiction, our world suddenly became a dark and frightening place with little understanding of where to turn for help. Our family’s journey through recovery compelled me to explore creative ways to help raise awareness among those who often struggle in silence with a loved one’s substance use, misuse or addiction. Helping to create Be a Part of the Conversation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experience, strength and hope!
”I have been dreaming of the day when we could offer an education program like the Family Recovery Course. I am so grateful to my dear friend, Pam Roberts, to our amazing Clinical Advisor, Mike Blanche, and to the other dedicated instructors, for helping to provide this invaluable service to other family members.”
email: kim@conversation.zone
phone: 215-416-5604
Kim has been attending the Hatboro Parent Partnership meeting since 2011.
Bob Lamb, MPH
In addition to coordinating the Family Recovery Course, Bob Lamb is the Director of Operations & Programs for Be a Part of the Conversation. Bob is also a person in long term recovery.
Bob earned a Bachelors in Health Sciences from the University of the Sciences and a Masters of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from Temple University. Through the course of his recovery and education, he has worked to enhance recovery support services and harm reduction interventions for people in and seeking recovery across the greater Philadelphia area, both professionally and as a volunteer.
In his spare time, Bob enjoys working out, triathlons, and making bread and pizza. Bob lives in Havertown with his wife, Caroline, and daughter, Eleanor.
email: bob@conversation.zone
phone: 610-945-6992
Michael Blanche, MSS, LCSW
Michael Blanche, MSS, LCSW is the Clinical Advisor to Be a Part of the Conversation.
On May 3, 2011, Michael Blanche spoke to a group of community leaders to help us introduce Be a Part of the Conversation to the public. Since that day, he has been a consistent source of professional guidance to our organization, in addition to being a frequent speaker at our programs. As our Clinical Advisor, Michael will provide his expertise as we develop and enhance our programs, and will be available to respond to questions that may be posed by media outlets and Be a Part of the Conversation partners when a clinical perspective is appropriate.
Michael is the Co-Founder of Ethos Treatment, LLC and is a licensed clinical social worker with more than twenty years of experience providing direct clinical treatment for those who are dually diagnosed with addiction and other psychological issues. He has worked in all levels of care in the treatment of addiction and mental health, with extensive expertise in establishing and supervising residential and outpatient programs throughout the Philadelphia Metropolitan area.
Michael is a leading expert in the field of prevention, specializing in middle school and high school prevention talks and staff development. Providing CEUs on the impact of technology, process addiction, complex trauma, young adult substance abuse and dual diagnosis are just a few workshop titles he has facilitated. Michael is known for working with complex individuals and their families assisting in difficult times of discerning the appropriate level of care or proper placement.
“Be a Part of the Conversation is so important to begin the dialogue with families and youth about mental health and substance abuse, to understand the complexities, to understand that there is help, and to understand how to connect the dots for individuals who don’t know how to get help. So being a part of the conversation, and beginning the conversation, starts with asking for help and learning how to ask for help, and where to find amazing resources in our communities.” – Michael Blanche, MSS, LCSW
Please note: Michael Blanche will not be providing or administering treatment to individuals on behalf of Be a Part of the Conversation, nor does Be a Part of the Conversation have a service agreement with Ethos Treatment, LLC.
Bill Roberts
Bill and his wife Pam have been working with parents for more than 16 years when they helped start the first of many parent support programs in the Southeast Pennsylvania region. They found that the simple act of openly sharing their stories, feelings, and choices in a safe, intimate setting with other parents led to an awareness that allowed families to show their love for their child in a different way – one that modeled and supported only recovery rather than addiction. Parent Partnership and Be a Part of the Conversation have embraced and elevated this concept allowing thousands more to find help.
“Parents are not helpless. We can’t control our kids, but we can influence their behaviors. We can make things better, or we can make them worse. It’s just a matter of learning what works and what doesn’t. Recovery is simple but it’s not easy, and it’s nearly impossible to find it on your own. In our meetings, and now in the Family Recovery Course, we have witnessed hundreds of families stepping away from the chaos of drugs, alcohol, and related mental illness to build healthy, lasting relationships with each other. Addiction is not a choice, but recovery is.”
email: robertsbill99@gmail.com
phone: 610-716-5608
Pam Roberts
Since 2006, Pam Roberts, along with her husband Bill, has been active in starting and expanding parent support groups throughout our region. She has been interacting with hundreds of parents, therapists, recovery service providers, nonprofit organizations, and government representatives to educate and transform “parental behaviors” – something she considers to be a prerequisite to improving prospects for a healthy, reconnected family. In 2012, Pam and Bill developed a series of parent support group manuals to provide a better understanding of the disease of addiction and how it impacts the whole family. All the manuals, including Standing in the Storm, the first in the series, are available for download at no cost at this page on our website: conversation.zone/Storm.
Since 2006, Pam Roberts, along with her husband Bill, has been active in starting and expanding parent support groups throughout our region. She has been interacting with hundreds of parents, therapists, recovery service providers, nonprofit organizations, and government representatives to educate and transform “parental behaviors” – something she considers to be a prerequisite to improving prospects for a healthy, reconnected family. In 2012, Pam and Bill developed a series of parent support group manuals to provide a better understanding of the disease of addiction and how it impacts the whole family. All the manuals, including Standing in the Storm, the first in the series, are available for download at no cost at this page on our website: In the summer of 2021, Pam retired from her “day job” as a senior manager in Human Resources at Pfizer, Inc. to join Be a Part of the Conversation as our Parent Partnership Coordinator.
email: pam@conversation.zone
phone: 610-716-3613
About our Programs
Be a Part of the Conversation presents interactive events that increase awareness and reduce stigma surrounding substance use, misuse and addiction. If you are an educator, community leader, health care provider, or if you represent an organization that believes we can all benefit from having meaningful conversations about substance use, and its affects on individuals and their families, we invite you to join us!
How can we help?
There are two ways to Be a Part of the Conversation:
1. Choose from our Program Menu below on an “as needed” basis.
2. Become an annual Community Partner and Be a Part of the Conversation will present three community programs plus a professional development workshop. We’ll serve as an integral part of your community, providing ongoing support.
Schedule a Consultation
We will work with you to determine the topics that meet the needs of the population you serve.
Contact Judy Hirsh, our Director of Community Engagement: judy@conversation.zone or (717) 648-9800
Mock Teen Bedroom
Our display is intended for parents and educators to learn some of the signs of substance use in a simulated setting of a teenage bedroom.
Our display is intended for parents and educators to learn some of the signs of substance use in a simulated setting of a teenage bedroom.Navigating the Holidays
For many families who love someone with a substance use disorder, the holidays can be an extremely stressful time. Not only is this a difficult time for the individual who is addicted, but it’s also hard for families to watch their loved one struggling, all amid the tensions, sadness, and overindulgent behavior that is later regretted. This program helps families to manage the stress of substance use issues while maintaining peace and fostering family unity.
Family Recovery Assessment and Treatment Resources
Addiction is a family disease, therefore parents often experience a range of emotions and may struggle with trauma associated with witnessing their child’s substance use and progression.
On the handout, and the link to our web page below, you will find just a few options for therapists and counselors who work with us … the family members.
Parenting On Your Feet
What are the challenges you are facing as parents, caregivers and educators? We’ll provide suggestions for talking with teens that will lay the foundation for healthy behaviors.
Our presenters address risk and protective factors, changes in behavior and other warning signs, substances frequently used by teens and emerging adults, and more.
We often begin with a tour of our Mock Teen Bedroom, which helps adults to identify signs of substance use, and trends in the use of cannabis, vaping and alcohol that put kids at risk.
Together, we’ll develop helpful tools to support our youth!
Clearing the Air: Vaping | Nicotine | Cannabis
For parents and educators from all school levels. Kids are wired to try new things. The current trend, both nationally and locally, is vaping. Along with an alarming trend toward risk-taking behaviors, this is something we need to have a conversation about, as parents and as a community that cares.
For parents and educators from all school levels. Kids are wired to try new things. The current trend, both nationally and locally, is vaping. Along with an alarming trend toward risk-taking behaviors, this is something we need to have a conversation about, as parents and as a community that cares.The Search for Identity
Many young people are searching for their identity, feeling pressured by a label, or just trying to belong. How does this journey put some young people at risk for substance use or other behavioral disorders?
How can family members best support youth by nurturing their identity?
To answers questions like these, a panel of behavioral health professionals and individuals in recovery will join us to explore the risks, discuss the warning signs, and provide families and educators with the tools needed to empower young people and foster a healthy identity.
Below you will find information about our past presenters, along with supportive information and resources related to the topic.
Healthy Family, Healthy Boundaries
When someone we love becomes addicted to drugs, alcohol or certain behaviors, parents and other family members can be impacted in profound ways. We often isolate, or become consumed by fear or frustration, no longer recognizing our life as we once knew it.
We’ll explore strategies for creating healthy boundaries that benefit the entire family, as well as gaining a deeper understanding of the impact of addiction, and the possibilities for family recovery.
Cannabis (it's complicated, especially for kids!)
For parents of middle & high school students. What was once a simple plant, cannabis (marijuana) is now inspiring everything from fear to fierce loyalty. We address the science of today’s cannabis and its impact on our children’s developing brains. We need to keep an open mind and learn all we can about this drug which, today, bears little resemblance to a plant.
For parents of middle & high school students. What was once a simple plant, cannabis (marijuana) is now inspiring everything from fear to fierce loyalty. We address the science of today’s cannabis and its impact on our children’s developing brains. We need to keep an open mind and learn all we can about this drug which, today, bears little resemblance to a plant.Preparing Your Child to Launch
Whether our kids are just starting high school, planning for college, searching for their first job, or struggling to determine their next steps in life, we may find ourselves teetering on the parenthood fence. Are we still their caregiver? Their disciplinarian? Their problem solver? What are our boundaries? Can we see the line between being supportive and loving, and being the rescuer/protector? How does that change once they attend college or leave home?
Whether our kids are just starting high school, planning for college, searching for their first job, or struggling to determine their next steps in life, we may find ourselves teetering on the parenthood fence. Are we still their caregiver? Their disciplinarian? Their problem solver? What are our boundaries? Can we see the line between being supportive and loving, and being the rescuer/protector? How does that change once they attend college or leave home?Lessons Learned from Colorado
Author of Weed, Inc. and Marijuana Policy expert, Ben Cort, will join us for a conversation about the cannabis industry, and what we can learn about the impact on communities, and particularly young people, in a state where cannabis use has been on the rise.
Author of Weed, Inc. and Marijuana Policy expert, Ben Cort, will join us for a conversation about the cannabis industry, and what we can learn about the impact on communities, and particularly young people, in a state where cannabis use has been on the rise.Youth Marijuana Prevention Project
This section is dedicated to the five-year initiative called the Youth Marijuana Prevention Project (YMPP). Be a Part of the Conversation is pleased to partner with the Montgomery County Office of Drug & Alcohol to raise awareness of the effects of marijuana use on young people. YMPP launched in July 2019 in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
This section is dedicated to the five-year initiative called the Youth Marijuana Prevention Project (YMPP). Be a Part of the Conversation is pleased to partner with the Montgomery County Office of Drug & Alcohol to raise awareness of the effects of marijuana use on young people. YMPP launched in July 2019 in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.Addiction
This section is dedicated to all programs addressing the broad topic of addiction. These programs explore the brain science of substance use disorders and other addictions, as well as risk factors, protective factors, and the impact on families and others who care about someone who has struggled.
Is addiction a choice or a disease? We’ll take a look at the science of addiction, including risk factors, protective factors, and what the signs might be that someone has crossed the line from substance use or misuse to addiction. We’ll also talk about strategies for cravings and coping.
Is addiction a choice or a disease? We’ll take a look at the science of addiction, including risk factors, protective factors, and what the signs might be that someone has crossed the line from substance use or misuse to addiction. We’ll also talk about strategies for cravings and coping.Embracing the Consequences
Imagine that you, or someone you love, has felt the pain of some really harsh consequences – all because of a substance use disorder. Is it possible to move forward, heal, and find hope?
• While punishment is never preferred over treatment, can consequences such as legal charges be the intervention that ultimately ends the cycle of substance misuse?
• If treatment efforts have not been successful, can families help by changing our response to a loved one’s continued use?
• When our loved one’s consequences have devastated us, can we change our path to find our own peace of mind and recovery?
The Trouble with Alcohol
Celebrated on social media, an integral part of many sporting events, seemingly essential to social gatherings, and festively displayed at many grocery stores, alcohol is our country’s favorite mood altering substance.
We talk with clinicians and people in recovery from alcoholism about our history with alcohol, why it is innocuous for some and disastrous for others, and how to know when the line has been crossed from moderate consumption to alcohol use disorder. We will also discuss treatment options and the hope for lifelong recovery.
Cannabis. Who Knew?
Many of us have formed opinions about whether or not cannabis is harmful, if it is addictive or not, if there might be health benefits or risks, and so on. We are exploring these talking points using scientific research and data gathered nationally and locally, in order to present real conversation, real people and real answers about young people and cannabis. Our goal is simple: to reduce youth cannabis use.
Navigating the Maze of Addiction & Mental Health
This program addresses “dual diagnosis” – the correlation between substance use disorders and mental health challenges. People addicted to drugs are roughly twice as likely to suffer from mood and anxiety disorders, with the reverse also true. Together, we’ll explore paths to recovery from co-occurring disorders, which can be difficult to diagnose due to the complexity of symptoms, as both may vary in severity. In many cases, people receive treatment for one disorder while the other disorder remains untreated.
This program addresses “dual diagnosis” – the correlation between substance use disorders and mental health challenges. People addicted to drugs are roughly twice as likely to suffer from mood and anxiety disorders, with the reverse also true. Together, we’ll explore paths to recovery from co-occurring disorders, which can be difficult to diagnose due to the complexity of symptoms, as both may vary in severity. In many cases, people receive treatment for one disorder while the other disorder remains untreated.The Rising Tide of Stimulants
This program addresses the current trends surrounding stimulant/psychostimulant use. Attention is given to related risk factors and warning signs, focusing on populations that are particularly at risk. We also explore the trajectory of initiation via prescribed stimulants (such as Adderall, Dexedrine, Concerta) and their misuse, as well as the use of illicit stimulants, including cocaine, crack cocaine, crystal meth and some club drugs.
This program addresses the current trends surrounding stimulant/psychostimulant use. Attention is given to related risk factors and warning signs, focusing on populations that are particularly at risk. We also explore the trajectory of initiation via prescribed stimulants (such as Adderall, Dexedrine, Concerta) and their misuse, as well as the use of illicit stimulants, including cocaine, crack cocaine, crystal meth and some club drugs.Opioids
Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others. “Transforming the Pain Paradigm” takes a look at our country’s ongoing opioid epidemic, which has its roots in prescribed “pain killers.” Some pharmaceutical companies convinced the medical community, and the general public, that their pills would take away our pain. Our panelists include health care professionals who address ways that we manage and treat pain. We also shine a light on the stigma surrounding opioid use and addiction and explore options for the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others. “Transforming the Pain Paradigm” takes a look at our country’s ongoing opioid epidemic, which has its roots in prescribed “pain killers.” Some pharmaceutical companies convinced the medical community, and the general public, that their pills would take away our pain. Our panelists include health care professionals who address ways that we manage and treat pain. We also shine a light on the stigma surrounding opioid use and addiction and explore options for the treatment of opioid use disorder.A Regional Response to the Opioid Crisis
Approximately 300 people gathered at Temple University’s Mitten Hall on November 19, 2016 for an informative and interactive event that included speaker presentations, a panel discussion, and breakout groups for all participants, which were followed by a Q&A with the panel.
Being LGBTQ2IA+ & Healing from Substance Use
Social stigma, discrimination, and other challenges can lead to stress and treatment barriers that put the LGBTQIA+ population at greater risk for addiction and other behavioral health challenges. This program includes treatment specialists and those with lived experience to increase our awareness and understanding, to explore treatment options, and learn how we can support recovery.
Social stigma, discrimination, and other challenges can lead to stress and treatment barriers that put the LGBTQIA+ population at greater risk for addiction and other behavioral health challenges. This program includes treatment specialists and those with lived experience to increase our awareness and understanding, to explore treatment options, and learn how we can support recovery.Recovery Lives Here
Recovery housing provides individuals who have a substance use disorder with a greater chance of achieving long-term recovery and is associated with numerous positive outcomes, including:
• Decreased substance use • Reduced probability of relapse/re-occurrence
• Lower rates of incarceration • Higher income
• Increased employment • Improved family functioning
Pathways to Recovery
There is no universal “right way” to find recovery after struggling with a substance use disorder or dual diagnosis. Sometimes we need to take a few different paths to find the right fit. We may need to engage in a combination of programs to ensure lifelong recovery. Our panel includes representatives from various pathways to recovery.
There is no universal “right way” to find recovery after struggling with a substance use disorder or dual diagnosis. Sometimes we need to take a few different paths to find the right fit. We may need to engage in a combination of programs to ensure lifelong recovery. Our panel includes representatives from various pathways to recovery.Pathways to Recovery - Legal System
We explore programs throughout Pennsylvania that support individuals with a substance use disorder who have encountered the criminal justice system. Panelists represent the Department of Corrections’ MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment) program, drug treatment courts, and other diversion programs.
Creative Recovery
Exploring creativity can dramatically benefit our recovery, whether we have a history of substance use, or have been impacted by another person’s addiction. Panel discussions and workshops will explore creative ways to enhance, celebrate or deepen our recovery! If substance use disorder has impacted you or someone you love, you’ll discover the countless paths that exist to find meaning in the journey of recovery.
Keys to Family Recovery
Many family members who love someone with a substance use disorder (addiction) have experienced pain, frustration, fear, or trauma. Isolation due to stigma and a feeling that no one understands can erode family well-being. This program explores family recovery and shares healthy strategies for healing. Panels include Rick Shugart, MFT, along with family members who have been impacted by addiction.
Healing the Traumatized Family
Family members often experience trauma when a loved one has struggled with addiction and related mental health challenges. Our guest speakers demonstrate ways we can heal and find our own recovery.
Professional Development/Faculty Inservice/Lunch & Learn
Be a Part of the Conversation is available school professional development workshops, or at workplace wellness fairs or lunch-and-learn programs. We will customize topics that are of interest to your audience.
