Michael’s Story: Healing Love Addiction, Avoidance, and Emotional Pain

A longtime therapist himself, Michael never imagined he’d seek residential treatment. But after a painful breakup and recognizing the emergence of compulsive behaviors he’d never experienced before, something he read in Pia Mellody’s work on love addiction and avoidance prompted him to take action. At The Meadows, Michael found a compassionate, highly structured environment that allowed him to disconnect from daily distractions and focus on deep healing. Today, with a renewed commitment to his recovery, he maintains structure through therapy, 12-Step involvement, and daily self-care, and continues to experience meaningful progress in all areas of life.