The Truth About 12-Step Programs: What No One Tells You with Arlina Allen

In this episode, Arlina Allen explores the truth about 12-step programs and dives deep into the common misconceptions, barriers, and unexpected benefits. Arlina shares her personal journey from resistance to transformation, highlighting how reframing common challenges—like the language of “character defects” and the concept of powerlessness—can make the 12 steps a powerful tool for healing.

Key Takeaways:

• [01:06] – Why 12-Step Programs Are So Misunderstood

• [05:00] – Reframing the Good Wolf vs. Bad Wolf Parable

• [07:22] – The Problem with “Character Defects”

• [15:46] – The Illusion of Moderation: Can You Control Your Drinking?

• [25:14] – Why 12-Step Programs Get a Bad Reputation

• [28:46] – Rethinking the Role of God in Recovery

• [37:35] – Why Words Like “Alcoholic” Can Be Both Useful & Limiting

• [46:31] – The 12 Steps as a Structured Path to Change

• [50:49] – The 4th Step: Why Looking at Ourselves is So Hard

• [54:28] – Is AA a Cult? Debunking the Myth

For full show notes, click here!

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