Compassionate Witnessing: A New Approach to Family Healing w/ Lisa Smith

In this episode: We explore a powerful conversation with Lisa Katona Smith about what it truly takes to support both individuals and families through addiction and mental health challenges. Lisa shares her groundbreaking Parallel Recovery® approach, revealing why recovery must include families for lasting change. We discuss the transformative power of becoming a compassionate witness, the importance of setting boundaries that protect your peace while keeping love alive, and how to avoid the hidden traps of over-helping. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to create connection, foster understanding, and protect your own wellbeing in the process.

Meet my guest: Lisa Katona Smith is a TEDx speaker, author, and founder of Parallel Recovery®, a family recovery framework that’s reshaping how we approach healing. With decades of experience as an educator and advocate, Lisa works directly with families to empower them as active participants in the recovery process. Her work equips loved ones with the tools they need to foster connection, encourage change, and navigate the complexities of addiction and mental health with compassion and clarity. Her upcoming book, Parallel Recovery (releasing September 9th), offers even more practical guidance for those walking this journey alongside someone they love.

Quote/Piece of Advice: Listen to understand rather than to respond

https://www.instagram.com/parallel_recovery/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=parallel%20recovery

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-smith-985b48212/

To connect with your host Kat:

@TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli 

My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇

https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect