Exploring the Role of the Other in Addiction Recovery
Authors
Flood, Helen
Issue Date
2025.16.12
Degree
MA in Pscyhotherapy
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
Open Access
Abstract
This thesis explores the role of the Other in recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), with a focus on how psychotherapists understand and engage with the relational dimensions of healing, particularly in the context of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and psychotherapy. While AA and psychotherapy are widely used in addiction treatment, little research has examined how the Other – whether therapist, sponsor, or peer – is experienced as a catalyst for recovery, especially in the Irish context. To address this gap, six experienced Irish psychotherapists were interviewed using a qualitative design. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed to explore their insights into how relational connection, meaning-making, and identity transformation support recovery. The findings indicate that the presence of the Other plays a central role in rebuilding trust, holding hope, and co-creating a future-oriented self-narrative. Participants described how recovery involves not just behavioural change but sustained relational engagement – particularly in navigating the psychological impact of trauma and disconnection. While key distinctions between AA and psychotherapy were acknowledged, participants advocated for a reflective, integrative stance that supports clients in engaging critically and ethically with both systems. The study contributes to the literature by offering an in-depth, clinically grounded perspective on how recovery is shaped within and between relational frameworks. It underscores the need for training, collaboration, and person-centred practice in addiction work. Ultimately, this research affirms that recovery is not solely a personal task, but a relational journey – held and supported by the enduring presence of the Other.