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
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
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
