The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

430: The Truth About Recovery with Dr. Mala

Feb 7, 2025

Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri, known as Dr. Mala, is the Chief Clinical Officer at recovery.com, where she fuses Western psychology with Eastern philosophies in addiction recovery. She shares her personal journey into this field and emphasizes the importance of holistic, individualized treatment. Dr. Mala discusses the non-linear nature of recovery and the role of trauma in shaping her approach. She advocates for breaking stigma surrounding addiction and highlights innovative treatments like virtual therapy, yoga, and adventure therapy.

54:37

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Episode guests

Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri

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Quick takeaways

Recovery from addiction is a non-linear journey that necessitates confronting emotions and building resilience for sustained healing.

Connection and support from family and community play a critical role in combating isolation and enhancing the recovery process.

Deep dives

Understanding the Non-Linear Nature of Recovery

Recovery from addiction is often misunderstood as a linear process, where individuals complete a program and are then considered cured. In reality, recovery is a multifaceted journey that involves continuous ups and downs, challenging the perception that milestones represent a definitive end. Confronting one’s emotions is essential; doing so not only strengthens an individual but empowers them on their healing journey. Embracing emotional realities allows for genuine progress and reinforces the message that facing feelings is critical for sustained recovery.

Intro

4min

Holistic Healing and Advocacy in Recovery

14min

Navigating Stigma and Seeking Recovery Support

3min

Innovative Paths to Mental Health Recovery

17min

The Vital Role of Support Systems in Recovery

4min

Breaking Isolation: The Path to Recovery

6min

The Role of Clinical Oversight in Recovery Education

4min

Advocacy and Innovation in Recovery

4min

Episode 430: Integrative Approaches to Recovery with Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri

In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri, also known as Dr. Mala, to discuss her integrative approach to addiction recovery, rehabilitation, and mental health treatment. Dr. Mala shares her personal journey that led her into the field, the importance of holistic and individualized treatment, and how she has worked to break down barriers in accessing quality care.

What We Cover in This Episode:

Dr. Mala’s personal journey into psychology and addiction recovery work
The challenges of pushing for integrative mental health care
How trauma informed her approach to treatment
The importance of cultural competence in mental health and recovery
Understanding addiction recovery as a non-linear process
The necessity of breaking isolation in the recovery journey
The evolving role of virtual therapy and accessibility in mental health care
How alternative and holistic approaches such as yoga, meditation, and adventure therapy are valuable in rehabilitation
The role of family and loved ones in supporting recovery
How to advocate for personalized treatment if current options aren’t working
Resources available through Recovery.com for both individuals and families

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Mala and her background 02:00 – How Dr. Mala entered the field of psychology and recovery 06:00 – Why she emphasizes integrative approaches in treatment 10:00 – Challenges in advocating for a holistic recovery model 12:00 – Misconceptions about addiction and recovery 16:00 – The importance of connection and breaking isolation 21:00 – Alternative therapeutic approaches that work 27:00 – The role of family and community in recovery 33:00 – Steps to take if current treatment isn’t effective 38:00 – Recovery.com and available resources 44:00 – Final words of wisdom for those struggling or supporting a loved one

Resources: