In this piercing episode of "Bear Brook," journalist Lauren Chooljian embarks on a daring exposé, uncovering allegations of sexual misconduct within the ranks of addiction treatment leadership. Delving deep into a world where vulnerable individuals seek help, Chooljian encounters stories of personal boundaries violated and unwanted advances from those entrusted to guide recovery. The episode paints a sobering picture of the systemic challenges that face movements aiming to address such misconduct, particularly within the specialized context of addiction recovery. With sources revealing their struggles and fears, Chooljian herself becomes a target, as retaliation strikes close to home, raising alarm over the protection of those brave enough to come forward.
The investigation further lays bare the troubling absence of proper regulation within the addiction treatment industry, as explored in Chooljian's podcast alongside co-speaker Jason Moon. "The 13th Step" delves into the allegations against a New Hampshire treatment network leader, highlighting the exploitation hidden behind the facade of support. The term "13th Step" itself suggests a betrayal of trust, serving as a grim metaphor for the predatory behavior witnessed. As the podcast unfolds, the necessity of systemic reform becomes increasingly apparent, urging a call to action against the misuse of power and advocating for the safety and dignity of those seeking a path to recovery.
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Lauren Chooljian, in her investigative reporting, reveals numerous allegations of sexual misconduct by a leader in the addiction treatment industry. These allegations revolve around the violation of personal boundaries and unwanted advances. Sources have openly discussed instances where they felt their discomfort and objections were ignored by the treatment leader. The reporting also addresses how such issues present a challenge to movements like Me Too within this specific sector, emphasizing the paradox of recovery professionals becoming perpetrators. During the course of her investigation, Chooljian faces dangers herself, including retaliation with a threatening act of vandalism on her home and legal action against her and her associate. Concerns extend to the safety of witnesses whose testimonies are crucial to the case.
Through "The 13th Step," Chooljian's podcast, the addiction treatment industry's darker underbelly is scrutinized for its patterns of abuse and the significant lack of regulation and accountability. The term "13th Step," while not directly defined in the report, alludes to the exploitation of those in recovery. The podcast details how a New Hampshire addiction treatment network leader allegedly used his authority to sexually harass and assault women. It presents the troubling dynamic of power being misused against the vulnerable—women who seek guidance and support in overcoming their addictions—and highlights the industry's dire need for structural changes to prevent such abuses from occurring.
1-Page Summary
Lauren Chooljian's investigative reporting uncovers multiple allegations of sexual misconduct within the addiction treatment industry, revealing a sobering picture of the system's darker side and the challenges that come with exposing the truth.
Lauren Chooljian reports on serious allegations against a prominent leader in the addiction treatment industry, after receiving tips about possible professional misconduct.
Several sources came forward to Chooljian with allegations. One of the sources described an incident where her personal boundaries were violated by the treatment leader. Despite her discomfort and lack of desire for these advances, she found herself in a predicament, unsure of how to rebuff them effectively.
Chooljian explores the broader implications of these allegations, discussing the limits of the Me Too movement, particularly within the addiction treatment sphere. An unidentified voice adds to the discussion, highlighting the disturbing normalcy of sexual harassment in such facilities, and notes the irony of those tasked with guiding recovery themselves becoming the aggressors.
The investigation takes a dark turn as Chooljian finds herself a target of retaliation, believed to be linked to her work on the case.
Alleged sexual misconduct by addiction treatment leader
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Chooljian's investigative podcast "The 13th Step" delves into allegations of sexual abuse within the addiction treatment industry, highlighting patterns of exploitative behavior and lack of oversight.
"The 13th Step" is a term used within the addiction recovery community, and while the podcast doesn’t state the meaning outright, it is implied to concern a form of exploitation.
In the podcast, Chooljian explores a case where the leader of New Hampshire’s largest addiction treatment networ ...
Addiction treatment industry lacks accountability
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