Katie Lain on Transforming Alcohol Recovery with Thrive

Innovative approaches are reshaping traditional methods, offering hope and tangible results to those seeking sobriety. One such trailblazer is Katie Lain, co-founder of Thrive Alcohol Recovery. In this interview, we delve into Thrive’s genesis, its unique methodology, the challenges of pioneering online recovery programs, and its vision for the future, offering insights not only into alcohol recovery but also into the entrepreneurial landscape of the health and wellness industry.

Inspiration Behind Thrive

SBS – What inspired the creation of Thrive Alcohol Recovery?

Katie – The creation of Thrive Alcohol Recovery was inspired by my own personal struggle with alcohol and my success with the Sinclair Method. Having experienced the transformative impact of this treatment, I felt a strong desire to help others discover and benefit from it as well. Despite the Sinclair Method being researched for decades, many people are still unaware of its potential. I wanted to create a place where individuals can get started on their journey with this treatment and receive the support they need to succeed.

The Sinclair Method: Revolutionizing Alcohol Recovery

SBS – How does The Sinclair Method differentiate your program from others?

Katie – It focuses on drink reduction rather than complete abstinence. Our approach meets people where they are, allowing them to set their own goals and become empowered over their relationship with alcohol. Whether an individual aims to become a moderate drinker or eventually go alcohol-free after treatment, the choice is theirs.

This treatment is evidence-based and has a very high success rate, providing a reliable and effective path to change. This flexibility and personal empowerment are at the core of our program. We offer a supportive environment tailored to each person’s unique journey with alcohol.

Online Challenges

SBS – What challenges did you face in establishing an online recovery program?

Katie – Establishing an online recovery program came with several challenges. One significant challenge was raising awareness about the Sinclair Method itself. Despite its high success rate and evidence-based approach, many people are still unaware that this treatment is an option, especially through telehealth. This required considerable effort in educational outreach to inform potential participants about the program’s benefits and availability.

Another challenge was ensuring that we offered a program that met people’s diverse needs and the varying levels of support required. It was essential to create a flexible and comprehensive program to accommodate different individual goals and circumstances.

Additionally, building a dedicated support team whose primary goal was the care of our members posed its own difficulties. We needed to assemble a team of knowledgeable and empathetic professionals who could provide personalized coaching and peer support, ensuring that every participant received the care and guidance they needed.

Despite these challenges, our commitment to helping others achieve empowerment over alcohol and the positive feedback from participants have made the journey absolutely worthwhile.

Privacy and Discretion

SBS – How do you ensure client privacy and discretion in your services?

Katie – Ensuring client privacy and discretion in our services is of utmost importance. We implement several measures to achieve this.

1. Secure online platform: Our online platform is built with robust security features, including end-to-end encryption, to protect all communications and data shared by our clients. This ensures that personal information remains confidential and secure from unauthorized access.

2. Confidential consultations: All consultations, whether with coaches or peer support groups, are conducted in private, secure virtual rooms. We adhere to strict confidentiality agreements to ensure that clients feel safe sharing their experiences and challenges.

3. Anonymous participation: Clients have the option to participate anonymously. We understand the sensitive nature of seeking help for alcohol use and respect each individual’s preference for anonymity.

4. Privacy policies: We have comprehensive privacy policies in place that outline how we handle and protect client information. These policies comply with all relevant regulations and standards.

5. Trained staff: Our support team is thoroughly trained in privacy practices and is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of all client interactions. Their primary goal is the care and privacy of our members.

Medication Integration

SBS – What is your approach to integrating medication in alcohol recovery?

Katie – Our approach to integrating medication in alcohol recovery centers on the use of Naltrexone. We’ve partnered with doctors across the US who specialize in prescribing Naltrexone for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Many of our clients join with medication already in hand from their own doctors, and they come to us for day-to-day support as they make this significant lifestyle change. We ensure seamless integration of the medication with our personalized support programs, offering continuous monitoring and guidance to help clients achieve their goals.

Coaches’ Expertise

SBS – Can you describe the training and experience of your coaches?

Katie – Many of our coaches are certified Sinclair Method coaches with personal experience using the method, offering valuable insights and guidance from their own journeys. Additionally, we have peer support coaches who provide empathetic, relatable support and trained therapists and psychologists who bring professional expertise to our team.

This diverse coaching approach allows us to address various aspects of our members’ recovery. Our coaches help with behavioral changes that come with drinking less, such as developing new habits, building coping skills, and making lifestyle changes. This comprehensive support system ensures that our members receive holistic care tailored to their individual needs.

Metrics and Milestones

SBS – How do you measure the success of your program?

Katie – We measure the success of our program in several ways. Our members self-report their drink reduction levels, and most of them are charting their drinking on a daily basis — which helps them to both objectively and subjectively track their progress so we can provide support when needed. Additionally, we measure success through engagement in the program, noting participation in coaching sessions, peer support groups, and other activities.

Recognizing that everyone reaches their goals at a different pace, we understand that some members may achieve their goals in a few months while others might take a year or more. We regularly check in with our members to monitor their progress and provide ongoing support, ensuring they are making positive changes at a pace that works for them.

Community Support

SBS – What kind of community support do you offer in your program?

Katie – Our program offers a variety of community support options, including:

1. Peer support: Connect with others who understand your journey and can offer empathy and encouragement.

2. Private community: Access a safe, exclusive online space to share experiences and seek advice

3. Live online groups: Participate in scheduled group sessions to discuss progress and challenges in real time

4. Private support: Members can receive personalized support through one-on-one Zoom sessions and messaging with our coaches and support team

Accessibility and User-Friendliness

SBS – How do you keep your program accessible and user-friendly?

Katie – We keep our program accessible and user-friendly through affordable monthly subscriptions or annual plans, as well as a partial scholarship to the program for those with financial need. Our easy-to-use community platform houses all resources within our app, making it convenient for members to access everything they need in one place. Additionally, members have unlimited messaging support with coaches, so they can reach out anytime for questions or support. This combination of affordability, simplicity, and constant availability ensures our program meets the needs of all our members effectively.

Client Testimonials

SBS – What feedback have you received from clients about the effectiveness of your methods?

Katie – We’re grateful that we regularly get unsolicited feedback from our members about how helpful the program is. You can read many of those here. 

Some of the feedback we hear regularly is:

1. The program helps people have better success with their medication treatment since we support their goals for habit and behavior change.

2. People feel free to be themselves and to be honest with their struggles and mistakes — without fear of judgment. That’s because we view all mistakes as really valuable learning opportunities.

3. Members like that we specialize in the Sinclair Method treatment and provide detailed guidance from people who have gone through it. This type of support is hard to find anywhere else.

4. Our coaches and mentors are very empathetic and compassionate and truly make our members the number one priority. That comes across in everything we do.

Tailored Programs

SBS – How do you adapt your program to individual needs?

Katie – We adapt our program to individual needs by offering personalized coaching and a variety of support options tailored to each member’s unique situation. Here’s how we do it:

1. Personalized coaching: Members have the option to work one-on-one or in small groups with our certified TSM coaches, peer support coaches, and trained therapists to develop customized plans that align with their goals and circumstances.

2. Flexible support options: Members can choose from various support methods, including live online groups, private Zoom sessions, and unlimited messaging with coaches, ensuring they receive the type and level of support that works best for them.

3. Progress monitoring: We regularly check in with members on their progress and make recommendations as needed, ensuring they are moving towards their goals at their own pace.

4. Comprehensive resources: Our easy-to-use app provides a wealth of resources, from educational materials to practical tools, all tailored to support different aspects of the recovery journey.

Future Outlook

SBS – What future plans do you have for Thrive Alcohol Recovery?

Katie – Our future plans for Thrive Alcohol Recovery include:

1. Expanding resources: We aim to continually update and expand our library of educational materials, tools, and resources to better support our members in their recovery journey.

2. Enhancing technology: We plan to improve our app and online platform to provide an even more user-friendly and interactive experience, incorporating new features based on member feedback.

3. Broader outreach: We are working to increase awareness about the Sinclair Method and our program through targeted outreach and partnerships, ensuring more people know about this effective treatment option.

4. Expanding support network: We aim to grow our team of certified TSM coaches, peer support specialists, and trained therapists to offer even more personalized and comprehensive support.

5. New program offerings: We plan to introduce additional programs and workshops focused on various aspects of recovery, such as nutrition, mindfulness, and stress management, to provide a holistic approach to alcohol recovery.

Entrepreneurial Advice

SBS – What advice would you give to entrepreneurs entering the health and wellness industry?

Katie – Entering the health and wellness industry as an entrepreneur can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some pieces of advice for those looking to make an impact in this field:

1. Understand your market: Conduct thorough research to understand the needs, preferences, and pain points of your target audience. This will help you develop a product or service that truly addresses their needs.

2. Focus on evidence-based solutions: Build your offerings on solid scientific research and evidence-based practices. This will not only enhance the credibility of your business but also ensure that you provide effective and reliable solutions to your clients.

3. Prioritize customer experience: Create a user-friendly and engaging experience for your clients. Invest in technology and design that makes it easy for users to access your services and resources.

4. Build a strong support team: Surround yourself with knowledgeable and passionate professionals who share your vision. A strong team will enhance your service offerings and provide valuable support to your clients.

5. Stay adaptable: The health and wellness industry is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest trends and developments, and be willing to adapt your strategies and offerings to meet changing demands.

6. Emphasize community: Foster a sense of community among your clients. Providing platforms for peer support and interaction can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your programs.

7. Maintain transparency: Be open and honest about what your services can and cannot achieve. Setting realistic expectations and maintaining transparency builds trust with your clients.

8. Invest in marketing and outreach: Use targeted marketing and outreach efforts to raise awareness about your offerings and educate potential clients about the benefits and uniqueness of your services.

9. Monitor and measure success: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your programs and services. Use feedback and data to make informed improvements and demonstrate the impact of your work.
10. Take care of yourself: As an entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry, it’s important to practice what you preach. Prioritize your own health and well-being to maintain the energy and passion needed to drive your business forward.