Sober Coaching in New York: Start Your Recovery Journey

I was born in New York City — smack dab in the center of it all. Raised and schooled in Manhattan, I experienced the heady atmosphere of New York in the 1980s, before it was "the safest big city in the country." Trash, crime, graffiti, rats — I saw it all. I knew the subway map by heart, I knew which streets to avoid, and I knew the places where kids could go without being bothered.

I was a good kid through high school — I experimented with drinking and with drugs (weed, LSD) — but unlike many of my friends, I didn't become a frequent user of any of them.

But after I graduated from college I went to a place I had never been — deep into "Alphabet City." The street we were told to go to was incredibly dark, because the drug dealers had shot out all the street lights. We told a shady character we were looking for "Dead Man" — a brand name of what would become my drug of choice. We walked out of the neighborhood with glassine bags of off-white powder, looking nervously around, certain that everyone knew what we were carrying.

I fell in love that night — with that thrill of buying on the street, and with the feelings I got from the drug itself. But eight years later, what had started as a fun and daring weekend indulgence had turned into an unforgiving daily habit. My finances, health, and social life were in shambles.

How I Got Sober

When I got sober, I did it through AA — Alcoholics Anonymous. It didn't matter to most people that my drug of choice wasn't alcohol, and there were meetings all over the place at all times of day. It was almost free. For anyone who is starting their sober journey, I can't recommend it highly enough.

But I spent my first year of recovery grappling with the fact that I didn't believe in the God that so many people insisted was central to the program. I held hands for the prayers at the end of each meeting feeling like a faker. No one told me that Atheists weren't welcome, but if I mentioned that I was an atheist, some people would look at me with a kind of pity — like "oh, isn't that nice. I have God on my side, but you can go ahead with your non-belief until you figure it out."

I was able to make it work. But countless people walk in to their first meeting, see the god-filled 12 Steps on the wall, then turn around and walk out.

Does that mean that those people should suffer the worst conditions of Alcoholism and addiction without help? Absolutely not. That's where a sober coach comes in. I specialize in helping people who have chosen not to use the 12-step path.

What Is Sober Coaching?

Sober coaching is individualized support for people who are ready to stop — regardless of what they're trying to stop. "White-knuckling it" — quitting cold turkey without help — rarely results in lasting sobriety. I have been helping people get sober for almost two decades, and I have developed materials to support people in their sober journey, from day one to the first year sober and beyond!

• Individualized Support: Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, sober coaching is tailored to your specific needs.

• Daily Phone Support: A quick check-in helps keep the focus in the day, not far into the future.

• Weekly Meetings: A weekly one-hour meeting delves deeper into the real work of sobriety.

• Sober Experience: I'm not a disinterested, distant clinician — I'm a fellow traveler who struggled hard to get sober. I'll share that experience with you.

Getting Sober in New York

Getting sober in New York offers specific challenges. Here are just a few:

• Alcohol for sale 24/7, usually within a few blocks

• The wide availability of every drug under the sun

• Drug delivery services

• A vibrant nightlife full of people enjoying the things we are trying to quit

• Trying to get sober while still performing a challenging job

• Maintaining anonymity in a very public city

  
  

It can sometimes feel impossible to get sober in New York — but I swear, it happens every day. If you've tried to get sober on your own without success, or you're ready to try, schedule a free consultation today.

Finding the Right Coach for You

Choosing the right sober coach is crucial. Look for someone who:

• Has experience working with clients in New York or understands the city’s unique challenges

• Offers a coaching style that fits your personality and needs

• Provides clear information about their approach, fees, and availability

  
  

I offer a free consultation, so take advantage of it. Remember, the right coach will support your journey without judgment and help you stay motivated.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Starting sober coaching is the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. This support helps you face challenges head-on and build habits that last. If you’re ready to take control of your recovery, reach out today.