The Story behind the "Anonymous" Books (Dr. Dennis Ortman) - Depression Anonymous, Anger Anonymous, Anxiety Anonymous,

 



Dr. Ortman writes - 

I wrote three “Anonymous” books for recovery from anxiety, depression, and anger. I view these mood states as similar to drug addictions that can be relieved by working the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

The seeds for these books were planted in my childhood. I was raised in an alcoholic family where I learned about the tragedy and power of addiction. As an adult, I sought healing and growth through therapy and participation in Adult Children of Alcoholics and Al-Anon groups. In graduate school, I wrote my dissertation on treating those with a dual diagnosis, that is, with both a substance use and mental health problem.

Working with my patients in private practice for the past thirty years, I observed that many suffered from chemical dependencies and process addictions, such as gambling, shopping, and sexual acting out. I further noticed that many of my patients who suffered from anxiety, depression, and anger felt possessed by their moods and powerless to overcome them. They both loved and hated these moods. Their struggles for recovery were similar to those of my other patients who were addicted.

Another seed for my approach to therapy was planted in my career as a Catholic priest for fourteen years. When I left the active ministry to be married, I began my studies in clinical psychology. As a psychologist, I felt that the psyche (soul) was missing in my conventional psychodynamic approach. I sought to unite the first and second halves of life, marked by theological and then psychological pursuits, in my treatment approach. I discovered the richness of the Eastern and contemplative traditions (mindfulness) as a path to uniting them. I also came to see the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous as the most original American spirituality for healing and growth.

This last seed blossomed into the three books of essays I wrote during the pandemic. Meeting with my patients throughout that period, I learned of the devastating physical, emotional, and spiritual toll it took on them and our society. In these books of essays, I reflect on various controversial topics using the insights of both modern psychology and time-honored spiritual wisdom.


BOOK OF THE YEAR FINALIST


For more posts about Dr. Ortman and his books, click HERE.


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