Telehealth: SUD Recovery From Home

September 16, 2025

David Mahler, Author & Certified Addictions Recovery Coach

Reviewed by Sandy Rivers, Subject Matter Expert

Author David Mahler authored the book From Stigma to Sanity: Taking Your Substance Misuse out of the Shadows. Having overcome significant personal hardships and devastating tragedies, David Mahler has turned his life experiences into a powerful source of hope and inspiration for individuals and families struggling with substance use disorders. 

David Mahler launched his own virtual coaching program for substance use disorder called Ground Zero Recovery Coaching. Unlike other programs, this one focuses heavily on building trust and openness with clients. It was born from David's personal journey with addiction and his unwavering support during his daughter's battle against substance abuse. His experiences provided him with valuable insights into the recovery process, inspiring him to create a coaching program that offers the same level of support and understanding he and his daughter needed. This personal connection and dedication make his coaching program stand out in the field. 

According to David Mahler 

My journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where I faced adversity from a young age. The loss of my father at just ten years old was a significant turning point. Despite my mother's unwavering love, the absence of a father figure led me down a path of drug use, a struggle I managed to conceal while maintaining a facade of normalcy through school and work. 

I sought acceptance and validation elsewhere, often gravitating toward peers who had a negative influence on me. My involvement with these troubled crowds inevitably led to repeated trouble and early exposure to drugs, starting when I was barely a teenager. 

Young Adult

Although I managed to maintain a semblance of normalcy, attending school and holding down jobs, I secretly continued a destructive path of drug use and risky behaviors. My life began to take a positive turn when, at the young age of 21, I became a father and a husband while also establishing my own business, which provided a fleeting sense of stability. 

Opportunity knocked once again at 26 when I transitioned into a promising career on Wall Street, becoming a foreign currency broker. My job was profoundly affected by the traumatic events of the 1993 bombing and the catastrophic attacks of the traumatic events of 1993 and 9/11 at the World Trade Center, leading to the impactful name of my coaching practice, "Ground Zero."

My Daughter, Dana, and Son, David:

My personal life endured further turmoil as substance abuse afflicted my own family, especially my beloved daughter Dana. Witnessing Dana's relentless struggles with addiction propelled me into a journey of compassion, understanding, and healing, ultimately motivating me to pursue a path dedicated to supporting others in similar situations. 

After years of tirelessly accompanying Dana through multiple rehab facilities and actively participating in community support groups, I embraced my path of recovery and healing.

My dedication to supporting others in their recovery journey led me to become a certified addiction recovery coach and a certified facilitator of addiction awareness. This deep-seated desire to assist those navigating the challenges and despair associated with substance use disorders continues to drive me.

My resolve to serve others grew even stronger following the heartbreaking loss of Dana to fentanyl poisoning and, later, the devastating death of my son David from complications related to long-term COVID-19.

Today, strengthened by faith, compassion, and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss, I continue my mission to uplift and empower individuals and families affected by substance abuse. My journey and unwavering commitment have transformed me into a beacon of hope, illuminating pathways toward recovery, healing, and renewed purpose for countless individuals.

Lessons David Learned:

Telehealth Coaching to the Rescue

Living with addiction can be overwhelming. The thought of seeking help, with its potential obstacles like travel, scheduling, and stigma, can add to the anxiety. Telehealth coaching offers a comforting alternative, providing relief from these stressors and allowing individuals to focus on their recovery.

• Breaking down barriers: Telehealth coaching and empowers individuals. Whether you're in a rural area, have a busy schedule, or face mobility challenges, this approach puts you in control. No commutes, no disruptions—just the freedom to prioritize your recovery and take charge of your journey to sobriety.

• Dealing with addiction can be a deeply personal struggle. The fear of judgment in traditional settings can be a barrier to seeking help. Telehealth coaching, with its sessions from the comfort of home, provides a sense of security and privacy, reducing the stigma and making individuals feel more at ease.

• Flexibility & Convenience: Telehealth makes scheduling appointments straightforward. You can fit sessions around work, family, or other obligations, making a consistent recovery routine more manageable.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Telehealth coaching can be a more cost-effective option than traditional methods. With no travel costs and potentially reduced childcare needs, the savings can be considerable.

• Stronger Accountability: Regular telehealth sessions help individuals stay on track with their recovery goals. Telehealth is particularly helpful for those who have recently completed treatment.

• Open Communication: The virtual setting can feel more inviting than traditional therapy environments. Open communication can lead to greater honesty during sessions, as individuals may feel less inhibited and more open to sharing their thoughts. Open communication is key to success.

• Family Support: Telehealth platforms often allow family members to participate in sessions. Family support is crucial for recovery, as a strong support system is essential for success. Virtual sessions enable geographically distant families to connect, foster unity, and provide support.

• Maintaining Progress: Telehealth is excellent during transitions, such as after inpatient treatment or relocation. Virtual coaching ensures a smooth transition and ongoing support, thereby minimizing the risk of relapse.  

"Ground Zero" Recovery Coaching:  

Having an addiction recovery coach after leaving treatment is crucial for sustaining long-term recovery. The transition from a structured treatment environment to the real world can be challenging, and a recovery coach serves as a guiding support system during this critical period. 

A recovery coach provides personalized assistance tailored to the individual's unique needs and challenges. This one-on-one support helps individuals navigate the complexities of daily life, addressing triggers and temptations that may lead to relapse. The coach helps reinforce the coping mechanisms learned in treatment and provides strategies for handling stress, cravings, and other obstacles. 

Moreover, accountability plays a significant role in recovery. A coach serves as a non-judgmental accountability partner, encouraging individuals to stay on track with their sobriety goals. This external support helps build resilience and fosters a sense of responsibility, empowering individuals to make healthier choices. 

Additionally, a recovery coach helps to develop the life skills essential for maintaining sobriety. A recovery coach may include assistance with employment, housing, and establishing a supportive network. By addressing these practical aspects, a coach contributes to the overall well-being of the individual, reducing the likelihood of relapse due to external stressors. In essence, an addiction recovery coach acts as a bridge between the structured environment of treatment and the autonomy of daily life. Their guidance, understanding, and ongoing support significantly enhance the chances of sustained recovery, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience in individuals on their journey to lasting sobriety. 

Who Can Benefit?  

Telehealth recovery coaching is beneficial for many individuals struggling with addiction, including:  

• Those in remote areas  

• Individuals with transportation challenges  

• People with childcare or work limitations  

• Those with social anxiety or a preference for privacy  

• Individuals seeking ongoing support while traveling  

Telehealth Coaching: A Powerful Tool  

Telehealth coaching empowers individuals to overcome addiction and reclaim their lives. By breaking down barriers and increasing accessibility, Ground Zero Recovery Coaching offers hope and support through telehealth sessions. If you're considering recovery options, explore telehealth coaching and take the first step toward a healthier future.

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If you desire to discuss this subject matter further with David Mahler, he can be reached at david@groundzerorecoverycoaching.com

Sandra Rivers, Subject Matter Expert, is the founder of https://authentictrainings.com/about-us/our-instructors/.

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