Public Library Hosting Workshop for Families Affected by Addiction

The New Britain Public Library has announced that it is hosting a free 8-week “Invitation to Change” workshop that it says is, “a groundbreaking, evidence-based approach to addiction recovery,” for, “families, friends, and professionals supporting those struggling with substance use.”

Karen Bernetti, the facilitator of the workshop, the Library says, is, “a certified Family Recovery Support Specialist trained in the Invitation to Change model, trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, founder of Mindful Family Recovery, and dedicated Phoenix volunteer with extensive personal and professional experience in addiction recovery support.”

“Most families are told to ‘detach with love’ or wait for their loved one to ‘hit rock bottom,'” said Karen Bernetti. “But research shows that families can actually be incredibly powerful catalysts for positive change – when they have the right tools. This isn’t about enabling or controlling. It’s about learning how to communicate and respond in ways that invite change rather than resistance.”

The Library says that the practical skills participants are to learn in the workshop include:

– How to communicate in ways that open dialogue rather than shut it down
-Strategies to set healthy boundaries without guilt or fear
-Techniques to encourage positive behaviors while discouraging negative ones
-Self-care practices that prevent burnout and compassion fatigue
-Methods to build genuine connection – even in the midst of active addiction

Details of the workshop the Library has announced includes,

What: Free 8-Week Invitation to Change Workshop
Who: Families, friends, and professionals supporting those with substance use challenges
When: Monday evenings starting Oct. 6th through Dec. 1st 6:30-7:45 PM. (except Oct. 13th)
Where: 20 High Street New Britain Public Library, New Britain, CT (Community Room) Cost: FREE
Registration: Required due to limited space. Register online via our calendar or call the Information Desk at 860-224-3155 ext. 125

The Library says, about the program,

Change workshop offers something different: practical hope backed by science, community support from others walking the same path, and tools that actually work to support both recovery and family healing.
This workshop represents a paradigm shift from traditional approaches that often leave families feeling powerless and blamed. Instead, it empowers families to become positive forces for change while reclaiming their own lives and well-being.