Where Recovery Meets Healthy Relationships

By Abby Glaser
Encompass Community Advocate

Most people who know Encompass are familiar with the work we do with couples--that’s certainly one of our core missions! But many people don’t realize that we also work extensively with individuals, meeting them right where they are in life. 
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One of the programs closest to my heart is a relationship class I’ve been honored to teach at McKinley Hall’s women’s residential program for more than six years. If you’re not familiar with McKinley Hall, they’re an incredible local resource offering hope and healing to those affected by substance use disorders (SUD), empowering people to build healthy, fulfilling lives. 

The need is great. Across the U.S., rates of substance use disorder among women continue to rise. Women with SUD often carry an even heavier burden: they are far more likely to have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. That history of trauma can increase the risk of PTSD, which is 1.4 times more likely to co-occur with addiction. Recovery, then, is about so much more than just getting sober--it’s about untangling years of hurt and learning how to build safe, supportive, loving relationships.

​That’s where our class comes in. Every week, I sit down with women who are determined to rewrite their stories. Many have never seen a healthy relationship modeled in their lives. But what they do have is an incredible desire for change—for themselves, for their children, for their future. Together we talk about recognizing red flags, setting boundaries, repairing trust, and even dating safely as a single parent. There’s always a mix of laughter, learning, and sometimes tears. The women encourage one another, share hard truths, and celebrate victories both big and small. 

Sometimes, a group setting isn’t enough—some women need more personalized help with relationships or parenting. In those moments, we step in one-on-one to provide the extra support they need to move forward with confidence. Whether it’s helping a mom rebuild trust with her child or guiding someone through what a safe, respectful relationship looks like for the first time, these moments are powerful and life-changing. 

I can honestly say that sitting front row for these transformations is one of the greatest joys of my career. Watching women complete treatment, heal relationships, and walk into the future equipped with healthy tools never gets old. These are not just success stories--they’re ripple effects that touch children, families, and entire communities. 

Right now, we’re fortunate to have funding to keep this class free for every participant. But the truth is--there’s so much more we could do. With additional resources, we could expand our reach, offer more one-on-one coaching, and continue to help women not just recover, but truly thrive. 

Would you consider partnering with us in this mission? Your support helps us walk alongside women who are rewriting their lives and, in turn, changing the future for their children and families. Together, we can help make lasting change possible—one relationship at a time. 

As our Fiscal Year comes to an end on September 30, we need your help to reach our $15,000 goal. Your gift will have lasting impact on individuals, couples, and families in our community. Join us in finishing strong: Give Here. 

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