From Addiction to Liberation; How Transformative Remembrance Led to Sovereign Service
Updated: Jun 23
Addiction often feels like being in the belly of the ouroboros. For many, the path to recovery is filled with setbacks and uncertainty. This story is about a journey that began in the depths of chronic trauma, street life, and drug dependance, and led to a life dedicated to helping others find their way out. It shows how powerful healing experiences can open new doors and inspire a commitment to betterment and service.
Early Struggles with Addiction
Starting opioid use at the age of twelve, the grip of addiction quickly took hold. What began as a way to cope with pain and confusion soon became a cycle of dependence that shaped years of my life. Like many who face substance use disorders, the experience included moments of euphoria, painful relapses, and deep isolation.
Addiction is not just about the substance; it is about the trauma and patterns that fuel it. The struggle often feels overwhelming, and the idea of recovery can seem so distant or impossible to reach.
The Turning Point: Experiencing Transformative Medicines
The real change came through encounters with three powerful medicines: Ibogaine, 5-MeO-DMT, and Kambo. These are not quick fixes or magic cures. Instead, they create a space for deep reflection and healing by interrupting old patterns.
Ibogaine helped break the physical and psychological cycle of opioid dependence.
5-MeO-DMT offered a profound spiritual experience that shifted perspectives on self and addiction.
Kambo supported emotional release and physical cleansing.
These experiences gave me a new way of seeing trauma, addiction, and personal potential. They showed me that recovery was not only possible but within reach.
From Patient to Supporter: Finding Purpose in Service
After my Ibogaine treatment, the next step was entering an aftercare center. Initially volunteering there, the role quickly grew into becoming part of the support team. This environment was a place of healing and rebuilding, where individuals faced the challenge of transitioning from treatment to long-term recovery.
Supporting others in this phase involved:
Providing daily accountability to help maintain focus.
Assisting with emotional regulation during difficult moments.
Offering practical guidance for rebuilding routines and relationships.
Collaborating with clinicians and holistic practitioners to create personalized recovery plans.
This work revealed a new purpose: to help others navigate the same difficult path with more support and understanding.
Formalizing the Commitment: Becoming a Certified Recovery Coach and Medicine Facilitator
Inspired by the impact of this work, further training was pursued to deepen skills and knowledge. Becoming a Certified Addiction and Abuse Recovery Coach provided tools to better serve individuals and families affected by substance use and related challenges.
The coaching approach focuses on:
Building inner trust and relational connections.
Encouraging self-awareness and personal growth.
Supporting clients through trauma-related patterns, and reparenting.
Guiding major life transitions with compassion and clarity.
This formal role allows for meaningful, one-on-one support tailored to each person’s unique journey.
During this period, I began training in the facilitation of Kambo and Bufo Medicines, studying with multiple Masters over the years. My experience also includes working as Recovery Support Staff in an NAD+ and ketamine-assisted detox program. In that capacity, I collaborated with medical professionals to support clients through detoxification, recovery stabilization, emotional regulation, routine development, and relapse prevention planning. I offered real-time support during high-risk situations and assisted clients in acquiring the skills necessary for sustainable recovery beyond treatment.
Over the years, I have cultivated a holistic understanding of addiction recovery that emphasizes the importance of addressing the physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and social aspects of healing.
These experiences have broadened my understanding of integrative healing approaches and highlighted the importance of creating safe, intentional spaces for transformation and personal growth.
What Ceremony and Coaching Look Like Today
Today’s work involves partnering with individuals at various stages of life. Each story is different, but the goal remains the same: to help build a sustainable foundation for growth, and optimization.
My roll is about walking alongside someone, offering guidance without judgment, and celebrating progress no matter how small.
Why This Journey Matters
This story is a reminder that recovery is possible, even when it feels out of reach. Healing can come from unexpected places and experiences. More importantly, personal transformation can lead to a powerful desire to give back and support others.
The path is not always easy, but it is filled with moments of profound beauty, clarity, strength, and inspiration. By sharing this journey, my hope is to inspire others to seek help, explore holistic options, and consider how they might support others, giving back from a place of wholeness and empowerment.
With the right support and tools, anyone can move toward a life of more freedom and purpose.
Step Into a Sacred Space of Healing and Transformation
Private one-on-one Bufo and Kambo sessions in the Bay Area, grounded in preparation, presence, and compassionate support.
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