Title – The Genesis Process:  A Relapse Prevention Workbook for Addictive/ Compulsive Behaviors

Authors – Michael Dye (youtube) and Patricia Fancher

Publisher – Genesis Addiction Process & Programs (G.A.P.P.), Auburn, California, 2007 (3rd Edition)

As a Christian counselor, Michael’s philosophy is that of an integrationist.  He seeks to blend Biblical principles with relapse prevention techniques, cognitive therapy, and neurochemistry research.

1. This workbook is not a self-help book but to be utilized in conjunction with a trained Genesis counselor.
2. The commitment is 15 to 20 weeks.  Alongside the counselor, the one seeking help needs an accountability group, a church family, and a mentoring friend.

The journey through this recovery program involves the following order:  an assessment, confronting false beliefs, understanding one’s true identity, building life-management skills, uncovering trouble areas in one’s life history, establishing a support team (pastor, spiritual mentor, 12-step sponsor, other), recognizing dead ends, acknowledging deja vu scenarios, seeking accountability, and preparing for exodus.

The one struggling with addictions will be introduced to the term, “double binds” – I am in trouble if I do, and I am in trouble if I don’t.  But it is doing the hard thing that usually is always the right thing to do.

Also, here are some highlights from the key thoughts inserted throughout the workbook:  “Addictions create secrets which isolate you from God and others.” “Beliefs create emotions.  Emotions drive behaviors.” “Rebellion is a fear of being controlled.” “Isolation is the most prevalent common denominator in all relapse.  All relapse leads to isolation, and all isolation leads to relapse.”  “The opposite of isolation is accountability.  Accountability is the key to long-term recovery and personal growth.” “Switching addictions is like changing seats on the Titanic.”

Throughout the instruction, the authors utilize charts, questions, homework, and memory verses such as Proverbs 3:5-6, 19:20, 23:7, Exodus 20:1-5a, Philippians 4:8, 13, Hebrews 10:24-25, Romans 7:15, Romans 12:2, James 1:22-25, and Colossians 3:13.