Recovery · Structure · Identity · One Day at a Time
AJ D.
Sober Life Coach · Addiction Recovery Specialist · Published Author
Founder of Pause the Dog Recovery Support
Helping individuals rebuild their lives from addiction through structure, accountability, and lived-experience support.
Recovery is not just about stopping substance use — it is about rebuilding a life that feels worth living.
AJ D. works with individuals navigating addiction, relapse, early sobriety, and long-term recovery by providing structured coaching, accountability systems, and practical life-rebuilding strategies.
Who I Am
I am a sober life coach, recovery mentor, and published author with more than 25 years supporting people through addiction recovery — in inpatient treatment, community programs, and the rooms of recovery. I am the author of Finding Sober Life and Living Sober Life.
Professional Background
- Recovery Support Specialist & Group Facilitator
- Peer mentor & 12-step sponsor
- AA Chairperson & group organizer
- Admissions & intake support
- Big Book / 12-step principles
- Public speaker & recovery advocate
- Published author: Finding Sober Life & Living Sober Life
My Approach
Recovery is a system built on structure, accountability, emotional stability, and identity rebuilding.
Decades in the Rooms and the Field
AJ has spent more than two decades supporting people through addiction recovery in inpatient treatment, community programs, and the rooms of recovery — backed by advanced clinical and behavioral-health training.
Treatment & Recovery Experience
- The Willough at Naples Behavioral Hospital — Recovery Support Specialist & Group Facilitator (2019–2024)
- Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach (2016–2018)
- 25+ years across Florida treatment centers, recovery organizations & community programs
- AA Chairperson, group organizer, sponsor & recovery mentor
- Published author: Finding Sober Life & Living Sober Life
Training & Certifications
- Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) — candidate, Florida
- Substance use & co-occurring disorders
- Trauma-informed care & crisis intervention
- CBT, ACT, DBT & mindfulness-based interventions
- Motivational interviewing & relapse-prevention planning
- DSM-5-TR & patient placement criteria
- Behavioral & process addictions (gambling, gaming)
What I Help With
Substance Use Recovery
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Stimulants
- Prescription drugs
- Early sobriety support
- Long-term recovery
Behavioral Addictions
- Gambling
- Internet & gaming
- Compulsive behaviors
- Habit replacement systems
Emotional Recovery
- Trauma-informed support
- Anxiety management
- Emotional regulation
- Shame reduction
- Stress coping skills
Recovery Structure
- Daily routines
- Relapse prevention
- Accountability systems
- Life rebuilding
Ways to Work Together
One-on-One Coaching
Private, personalized recovery coaching built around your life.
Early Sobriety Program
A structured 30 to 90 day program for the critical first stretch.
Relapse Recovery Reset
Get back on your feet with a clear, judgment-free plan forward.
Family Support
Helping the people around you understand and support recovery.
Group Facilitation
Facilitated group sessions that build accountability and community.
Virtual Coaching
Coaching from anywhere, on a schedule that works for you.
A Recovery Support Companion
Pause the Dog is a recovery support companion integrated into coaching sessions.
Pause. Breathe. Begin Again.
Why Work With AJ
Real-World Recovery Experience
Lived-experience support from someone who has walked the road.
Structured Accountability
Clear systems and check-ins that keep you moving forward.
Long-Term Stability Focus
Built for lasting recovery, not just the first 30 days.
Emotional Support Integration
Coaching that holds space for the emotional work too.
Book a Session
Reach out and AJ will get back to you personally.
Disclaimer: Coaching is not medical treatment. If you are in crisis, please call 988 or your local emergency services.