Lost and Looking for Guidance? Help for Parents of Children Battling Addiction

David Mahler • April 26, 2024

Are you a parent watching your child drown in the raging sea of addiction? Does the constant worry and stress leave you feeling helpless, like you're flailing in the dark for a lifeline? You're not alone.

Here at Ground Zero Recovery Coaching, we understand the unique challenges parents face when their child struggles with substance abuse, whether it's prescription medications, alcohol, or street drugs.


My name is Dave Mahler, and I'm the owner and operator of Ground Zero Recovery Coaching. But more importantly, I've been in your shoes. I've witnessed the pain and confusion firsthand, the desperate decisions made out of love but not always with clear thinking.


Ask yourself:


Does your child's addiction consume your every thought?


Do you feel lost and unsure of the best way to help?


Are your own well-being and mental health suffering in the process?


If this sounds familiar, please know this: you don't have to navigate this storm alone. Ground Zero Recovery Coaching is here to be the steady hand on your shoulder, guiding you through the choppy waters.


We understand the emotional rollercoaster parents experience:


The crushing helplessness.


The suffocating worry.


The anger, anxiety, and guilt that can be so difficult to manage.


That's why we offer a comprehensive support system specifically designed for parents:


Empowering you with knowledge: We equip you with tools to recognize triggers, navigate relapses, and make informed decisions.


Creating a safe space: We provide a platform for you to express your concerns, frustrations, and fears without judgment.


Building a support network: We connect you with other parents who understand your struggles and can offer encouragement.


Providing resources: We offer a wealth of information, including helpful resources and support groups.


By prioritizing your own mental and emotional health, you become a stronger anchor for your child. A calm and collected parent is far more effective in supporting their child's recovery journey.


Ground Zero Recovery Coaching isn't just about your child; it's about the entire family unit. We believe that recovery is a shared experience, and by focusing on both the parent and the child, we can create a foundation for long-term success.


No matter what stage of the journey you're in, whether your child is just entering treatment or returning home after a period of recovery, we're here to guide you. Let us help you make the next right choice.


learn more about how Ground Zero Recovery Coaching can empower you on the path to healing alongside your child.


Why a Recovery Coach Matters During the Holiday Season

By David Mahler • November 24, 2025
The holiday season has a way of magnifying everything—joy, stress, expectations, emotions, and memories. For people in recovery, this time of year can feel especially complicated. Between family gatherings, disrupted routines, emotional triggers, and environments where alcohol or old habits are present, it’s easy to feel unsteady. Whether someone has been sober for years or is only beginning to find their footing, support is essential. One of the strongest forms of support during this season is a recovery coach. A recovery coach isn’t just someone who cheers you on. They’re a partner in accountability, a guide through tricky emotional terrain, and a stable voice when everything around you feels loud or overwhelming. As we head into the holidays, here’s why having a recovery coach can make all the difference. Holiday Stress Hits Everyone—Including the “Experienced” in Recovery There’s a common assumption that the longer someone is sober, the easier the holidays become. And yes—time and practice do help. But recovery isn’t a linear experience, and stress doesn’t discriminate based on how many years someone has under their belt. For people with long-term sobriety, the holidays can bring nostalgia for “old times,” complacency, complicated family dynamics, and added responsibilities. A recovery coach helps ground and re-center someone who may not realize how much the season is taking out of them. For Those New to Sobriety, Everything Feels Amplified For someone new to recovery, the holidays can feel like being dropped into the deep end before you’ve learned to swim. A recovery coach acts as a lifeline—guiding someone through their first sober gatherings, helping get through the moments of fear, judgment, loneliness, and emotional overload. They help with boundary-setting, planning, and emotional support when everything feels new and overwhelming. Family and Relationship Dynamics Can Be Tricky Holidays and family can be both a blessing and a landmine. Common challenges include families who drink heavily, relatives who ask intrusive questions, emotional triggers, or pressure to “just have one.” A recovery coach helps prepare for these moments by identifying triggers, building communication plans, creating boundaries, and providing strategies to exit situations gracefully. Recovery Coaches Provide Structure When the Holidays Disrupt Routine Routine is one of the strongest anchors in recovery—but the holidays disrupt everything. A recovery coach helps rebuild or adjust routines, keep accountability, and provide grounding tools so the season feels manageable instead of chaotic. Most Importantly: You Don’t Have to Navigate the Season Alone Recovery thrives in connection. Isolation fuels relapse. A recovery coach is someone in your corner—celebrating wins, supporting tough moments, and helping you experience the holidays with authenticity and strength. Whether someone is decades into recovery or just starting out, the holiday season can be overwhelming. A recovery coach gives you the tools, support, and companionship to meet the season with confidence rather than fear.

How a Sober Companion Can Help Someone Transition Home After Treatment

By David Mahler • October 26, 2025

Why Some Executives Need a Sober Companion

By David Mahler • August 17, 2025
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, executives often face high-stakes decisions, long hours, and immense pressure to perform. This intense lifestyle can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use. When stress collides with the constant availability of alcohol at business dinners, networking events, and client meetings, the risk of dependency increases. For leaders looking to maintain their edge and safeguard their well-being, a sober companion or recovery coach can provide essential support. The Role of a Sober Companion A sober companion is a professional who helps individuals remain accountable and committed to their sobriety. Unlike a therapist, who may meet once a week, sober companions are often present daily, providing real-time guidance during business trips, social events, or other high-pressure situations. Their presence allows executives to navigate professional obligations without jeopardizing recovery or reputation. In addition, a sober companion offers structure, consistency, and discreet support—qualities that are invaluable for executives managing both personal recovery and professional demands. Why Executives Benefit Executives are under constant scrutiny. A single poor decision can impact not only their career but also the success of an entire company. A sober companion helps mitigate these risks by ensuring the leader remains clear-headed, present, and focused. This layer of accountability safeguards careers, stabilizes leadership, and ultimately benefits the wider organization. Beyond sobriety, many sober companions and recovery coaches encourage healthier routines—incorporating fitness, mindfulness, and stress management practices. This holistic approach helps leaders build resilience, making them stronger both in the boardroom and in their personal lives. Breaking the Stigma Seeking a sober companion or recovery coach should not be seen as a weakness. On the contrary, it is a powerful act of leadership. By prioritizing wellness, executives set a strong example for their teams and demonstrate that self-awareness and support are crucial for long-term success. Final Thoughts Some executives need a sober companion not just to maintain sobriety, but to thrive in demanding environments. Having professional support ensures they can lead with clarity, confidence, and balance. If you or someone you know could benefit from this kind of support, contact Ground Zero Recovery for all your sober companion and sober coaching needs.