Julia has just completed a 28 days residential treatment program for her alcoholism. Her older sister, Maria, was instrumental in sending Julia to treatment and took care of her children during the program. She has agreed to participate in Julia's post treatment recovery counseling. Julia also wants to bring her parents in for family counseling, but Maria says she does not think that would be appropriate given their own history of alcohol dependence. Julia believes that she cannot change her role in the family unless the others in the family also change their roles and relationship with her. Maria suggests that they just cut their parents out of their lives. Pretending they have died and perhaps even have a mourning ritual for their loss. Unbeknownst to Julia, Maria was sexually abused by her father when she was teenager. Maria still feels afraid and vulnerable when her father is present or even mentioned. Maria has also been hiding another secret from the family, that she is a regular user of cocaine. She uses cocaine to boost her confidence. Outwardly, Maria always conveys that she is confident and in control. Inside, Maria feels uncertain, confused and very much out of control.
Question one: analyze the roles that each member of the family plays in this scenario.
Question two: how would you approach this situation as an addition counselor?
Question three: what questions would you ask Julia? Maria?
Question four: what recommendations would you make to ensure maintenance of Julia's success?