Speakers
After recognizing that Eric was facing the challenges of addiction, I committed myself to understanding substance use disorder on a deeper level. Over the years, my education has included more than a decade in Al-Anon, participation in Celebrate Recovery, and study of Life’s Healing Choices by John Baker. I also attended specialized classes at Henry Ford Maplegrove and completed Family Peer Recovery Coach training.
Sharing our journey has become part of the healing process. I’ve spoken with support groups, presented at Macomb Community College, and contributed to television media—always with the hope of offering insight, connection, and encouragement to others navigating similar paths.
I'm a psychotherapist in private practice with over 20 years of experience, working with adolescents, adults, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges—including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and eating disorders. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, and I'm a certified trauma and loss specialist, trained in both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to helping clients build resilience in the face of shame and discover the transformative strength of vulnerability. I believe healing begins when we feel truly seen, and I strive to create a space where that kind of connection is possible.
I graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Social Work. I've worked in the addiction field for over 30 years, beginning my career at CARE of Southeastern Michigan as both a clinician and a program coordinator in the Prevention Department. Today, I lead the Community Education Department and serve on the clinical treatment team at Henry Ford Health’s Maplegrove Center in West Bloomfield. I'm also a proud wife and mother of two adult daughters.
Advisors
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist at Great Lakes Psychology Group since November, 2023, where I specialize in working with children and young adults. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Grand Valley State University, followed by a Master’s in Social Work from Wayne State University.
Prior to GLPG I worked in ABA therapy with children on the autism spectrum, ages 2–6, for 2-1/2 years. My passion has always led me back to children. I then joined Oakland Family Services where I provided home-based therapy to high-risk children for 4-1/2 years. This role was both deeply challenging and incredibly rewarding. I had access to their environments and insight to traumas they’ve experienced and being able to build strong relationships with children who don’t trust adults or authority figures. Being chosen as a safe space for them was one of the most powerful honors of my work.
I was approached by Gary in 2024 with an opportunity to advocate for mental health and substance use disorder. Since then, reading Gary’s book, having meaningful conversations, and developing a personal connection with Eric has been a truly special part of this chapter in my life. Collaborating with Gary, leading interviews, and connecting with others through this initiative has been an exciting and inspiring experience—and I look forward to where it leads next.
As a bereaved mother, wife, grandmother, speaker, author, grief coach, and life coach who has endured the profound loss of a child, I offer compassionate grief counseling rooted in faith, empathy, and personal experience. I create a safe, nurturing space for clients to process their grief, drawing on their spiritual beliefs and evidence-based techniques like mindfulness and trauma-informed care. My approach is tailored to each individual's needs, helping them navigate their pain, find meaning, rediscover hope and grow around their grief. Through active listening and heartfelt guidance, I support clients in building resilience and embracing healing.
I specialize in mothers who are grieving the loss of their children and have a group for Grieving Mothers called MOAN's - Mother's of Angels Nearby, as well as a virtual safe space called the Grief Room. However, my grief coaching is for anyone experiencing a loss. As a life coach I help individuals identify and achieve their personal and professional goals. I work along side of each person and act as a guide, motivator, and accountability partner, supporting my clients in making positive changes and helping them reach their full potential.
As a speaker and author I have written in several Anthologies as well as published my own book called F.A.M.E - Forgiving All Mine Enemies. A book about life, loss, love, and my journey through it all. I am presently expanding my book, going more in-depth which will be available in January of 2026, with future books on grief and healing.
💬 About Us: A Message of Understanding and Hope
Substance Use Disorder (SUD)—commonly known as addiction—is a complex and deeply personal struggle that affects individuals and families alike. Our team exists to shed light on this experience, offering guidance, compassion, and practical insight to parents, children, and loved ones navigating the challenges of SUD.
We believe that education, empathy, and shared experience can break down stigma and open the door to healing.
👥 Who We Are
We are a team united by both professional expertise and personal experience:
- Lisa Kaplan and Laura Fishman bring over 50 years of combined work in the field of substance use. Their backgrounds span clinical care, community outreach, and behavioral health, offering a rich foundation of knowledge and support.
- As a parent, I’ve walked alongside our son Eric through more than a decade of his struggle with SUD. That journey taught me what it means to love someone through addiction, and how vital it is to understand our roles, responsibilities, and limits as family members.
Together, we offer a multi-dimensional perspective—one that honors both the science of addiction and the emotional realities families face.
📚 What We Share
Our presentations and resources cover key topics designed to inform and empower:
| Topic | What You’ll Learn |
|---|---|
| Understanding SUD | How addiction affects the brain and behavior |
| Triggers & Cycles | What initiates substance use and why stopping is so difficult |
| Recognizing the Signs | Early indicators and patterns of substance use |
| Supporting Without Enabling | Practical ways to help someone with SUD |
| Family Impact | Emotional and relational effects on parents and loved ones |
| Pathways to Recovery | Tools, resources, and hope for healing |
We speak candidly, compassionately, and without judgment—because we’ve been there.
🌱 Why It Matters
Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it ripples through families, communities, and generations. By sharing our stories and insights, we hope to:
- Reduce stigma around SUD
- Equip families with knowledge and tools
- Foster empathy and resilience
- Create space for healing and connection
Whether you’re a parent seeking answers, a young person trying to understand a loved one, or someone in recovery yourself, you’re not alone. We’re here to walk with you.