This deeply compassionate episode features Dr. Carrie Wilkens, co-founder of the Center for Motivation and Change (CMC) and co-author of Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Wilkens offers a fresh, evidence-based approach to helping families support loved ones with substance use challenges. She debunks myths like “hitting rock bottom” and highlights the power of CRAFT and the Invitation to Change (ITC) approach, combining science with empathy to promote real, sustainable change. Key Takeaways CRAFT vs. Traditional Methods Dr. Wilkens explains how Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) empowers families to influence change through positive reinforcement and effective communication—far outperforming confrontational or 12-step-only approaches. Research shows CRAFT engages 65–75% of unmotivated loved ones in treatment . Invitation to Change (ITC) Developed by CMC:Foundation for Change, ITC blends CRAFT, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). It’s structured yet compassionate—and designed for both professionals and families . Breaking Stigma with Science & Kindness Dr. Wilkens underscores her mission at CMC: “Science plus kindness equals change,” seeking to dismantle stigma while grounding strategies in rigorous evidence . Resources Mentioned in the Episode **Invitation to Change (ITC) Training (16-hour virtual workshop)** A structured training in ITC for professionals—offered by CMC: Foundation for Change → Register or Learn More **Rethinking Rock Bottom** A 6-part CMC-hosted podcast series co-led by Dr. Carrie Wilkens and Rev. Jan Brown, exploring the impact of stigma and offering empathetic support to families → Listen or Learn More **Center for Motivation & Change (CMC)** Dr. Wilkens’s organization offering a range of resources, including books, workbooks, trainings, and support services → Visit CMC Books by Dr. Carrie Wilkens Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change The Beyond Addiction Workbook for Family and Friends   Quote Highlight “Families don’t have to choose between enabling or giving up. With science and compassion on your side, you can be the bridge—not the barrier—to change.” — Dr. Carrie Wilkens Connect & Learn More Dr. Carrie Wilkens & CMC: motivationandchange.com Invitation to Change Training: Register/Register Info Rethinking Rock Bottom Podcast: Listen Here Books by Dr. Wilkens: Beyond Addiction and Beyond Addiction Workbook Support the Show Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. Share this episode to uplift someone navigating addiction in their life Visit positivesobrietypodcast.com for more episodes and resources