Healing & Community Support • Frequently Asked Questions
Clear expectations create a safer harbor.
Answers about identity language, recovery, meetings, professional care, multiple pathways, and participation.
The new philosophy
Honesty without identity imprisonment.
Brave Harbor names harmful patterns directly while protecting the person from being reduced to the pattern.
Do I need to identify as an addict or alcoholic?
No. Those words may be self-chosen, but they are never assigned or required. We ask for honesty about behavior, consequences, risk, vulnerability, and support needs.
Does this mean Brave Harbor minimizes addiction or alcohol-related harm?
No. Serious risks and consequences must be recognized. The distinction is between acknowledging a condition or pattern and treating it as the total truth about a person.
Can I still say I am in recovery?
Absolutely. Recovery remains respected and welcome whenever it is the participant’s chosen language.
Does Brave Harbor require abstinence?
Brave Harbor respects multiple pathways and goals. Some people require abstinence for safety or stability; others may pursue treatment, medication, harm reduction, or another professionally informed plan. Peer support does not determine medical safety.
Is Brave Harbor CBT or DBT?
No. Brave Harbor is not psychotherapy. Its educational tools may draw from concepts associated with CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and community reinforcement.
What does a Navigator do?
A Navigator protects the structure of the space, introduces tools and questions, supports reflection, and maintains boundaries. A Navigator does not diagnose, prescribe, or decide another person’s identity.
Is Brave Harbor a crisis service?
No. Use the crisis support cards at the top of every page or contact local emergency services when urgent or immediate help is needed.