Frequently Asked Questions for 12 Step Members

Is my therapist like a sponsor?

Not exactly, though the warmth, caring and support aspects do overlap.

Sponsor Shares personal experience, strength and hope.

Therapist Training and experience in emotionally receptive listening, methods of safely healing childhood wounds, and unconditional positive regard, to grow strength and hope.

Sponsor Two way sharing, mutual help and self-disclosure of personal stories.

Therapist One-way focus on healing client wounds. Focus exclusively on caring for client's needs and issues.

Sponsor Anonymity

Therapist Legally bound to strict and absolute confidentiality by California state law. Allows full and complete self-expression within safety provided by law.

Sponsor Flexible schedule

Therapist Committed schedule with clear boundaries, place, time, and purpose, and without distractions.

Sponsor Flexible relationship boundaries which can include casual socializing and friendships.

Therapist Dual relationship prohibited, thus providing a different kind of safety and predictability.