General Content Warning:

The ideas and perspectives in this model may not be universally shared across all cultures and people, as we recognize and appreciate varying worldviews and perspectives. One's lived experience is nuanced, complex, and deeply personal and allows for various interpretations, emotions, and perspectives to inform their own responses to the content in this model. The content in these modules have been designed to prompt self-reflection, create healthy dialogue amongst teams, celebrate our differences, and hold space for our personal growth and potential. The examples, scenarios, and characters portrayed in these modules are used to reinforce concepts through varying viewpoints, perspectives, and stories of transformation. The intention is to support participants in having a greater awareness of our traits in action and how they show up in one's life.

The following modules may include stories or topics that could potentially trigger an emotional response. Please proceed with caution and prioritize your well-being. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or need support, please consider reaching out to a trusted individual or a mental health professional.

LESSON SUMMARY: Introduction to the Trait-Based Model of Recovery

Welcome to the inaugural lesson, where Dr. Roop unravels the fascinating research that served as the bedrock for the groundbreaking

Trait-Based Model of Recovery. Studies have supported a captivating correlation—individuals grappling with substance use disorders often possess the same personality traits, character attributes, and life experiences as highly effective leaders!

In contrast to conventional approaches that focus solely on removing perceived character defects, the Trait-Based Model of Recovery sheds all labels and judgments, embracing each aspect of an individual's journey with forgiveness and understanding. By adopting this holistic and compassionate outlook, the model empowers individ‐ uals to embrace their authentic selves, fostering a profound commitment to their recovery journey.

Through this lens of self-acceptance, individuals discover a powerful sense of empowerment, igniting a newfound passion to transcend the challenges that once beset them. By embracing their unique traits and experiences, they forge a path that leads to holistic healing and a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Join us as we embark on this transformative voyage, where we cast aside preconceptions, embrace authenticity, and nurture the spirit of forgiveness. Together, we shall explore the boundless potential that arises when we journey towards recovery with empathy, understanding, and the unwavering belief in the inherent strength that lies within each and every one of us.

How this Model Works:

The Trait-Based Model of Recovery offers a comprehensive and structured approach to personal growth and healing, encompassing eight modules, each consisting of five transformative lessons.

The foundation of this model is the traits that we all possess. These traits include character traits, personality traits, and experiences, and will become the lens through which we view ourselves and the world. We will then advance through the topics of personal development, health and wellness, living in community, professional skills, entrepreneurialism, and leadership development by using our very own traits as guiding posts throughout the recovery journey.

Here is how you will progress through all 40 lessons and earn your certificate:

1.) Watch the video for each lesson.

2.) Read the guidebook which is embedded within each lesson and can be found under 'Lesson Summary').

3.) Complete the assignments which are provided at the end of each lesson. These assignments are meant as a tool to help you on this journey, and active engagement with the content is recommended for full benefit.

4.) Take the Trait-Based Assessment and Personality Profile 3 times (Lesson 1, Lesson 20, and Lesson 40).

Assignments (Individual and Group)

Write in a journal, or in a notebook, the traits that you believe you possess. Then, give yourself a score from 0-5 on how you would rate yourself for that particular trait. Once you have done this, take the Trait-Based Model of Recovery Assessment which can be found below.

How many of the traits you listed were also found in the Trait-Based assessment?

Lastly, reflect over the times you have led others in your life and write down how you plan to develop and enhance those leadership traits in the context of addiction recovery?

Remember to Take Notes: These lessons contain valuable information delivered over a short period of time, and include concepts, practices, and techniques which will become a valuable resource on your recovery journey. Be sure to take notes in a notebook or journal and add your thoughts.

Questions for Discussion

1. Have you ever considered that you have leadership qualities?
2. Recall the times in active addiction in which you influenced others, either positively or negatively. Do you think these occasions are reflective of leadership?
3. If leadership is influence, what makes the difference between bad and good leaders?
4. Write down all the occasions in your life when you have felt like you have led others towards good, positive change. (Optional: Discuss in group activity).
5. What do you consider are your top leadership traits? This will be a good measurement before taking the assessment.