Storying and Recovering the Self: A Journey Towards Transformation in Men in Addictions and Trauma Recovery

Abstract

This paper examines the stories of transformative learning of two men reflecting on their recovery from addictions and trauma. We employ the Hero’s journey as a useful frame within which to understand their stories of becoming more and progressing towards a recovered self. The article challenges the dominant biomedical model of addiction, and of recovery as being primarily about abstinence. It also provides further evidence for understanding transformative learning as a process of (re)integration which is supported through archetypal storytelling.