Healing the family system | Louise Stanger | #038 Mastering Change

What happens when the person in crisis isn’t the only one who needs help – but the entire family system? 

In this episode of Mastering Change, Louise Stanger – known as “the family whisperer” – shares her trauma-informed approach to working with families in addiction recovery and crisis intervention. 

Louise explains that healing often begins before any formal session takes place: by preparing families, helping them feel safe, and inviting them back into connection. 

“The most important thing we have to do is be in connection, be open and listen to each other’s hearts, because all our hearts are different.” 

She describes how her work is systemic and relational meeting each family where they are and recognising the role of story, culture and spirituality in recovery. 

We also explore: 

• Why interventions should be invitational, not confrontational 
• How to meet families with empathy, not judgement 
• The role of spirituality in recovery and resilience 
• What it means to see the whole system – not just the symptom 

Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to addiction, family crisis and trauma. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support. 

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/masteringchangepodcast

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