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Spero Health Clinical Insights
In the United States over 20 million Americans ages 12 and older have substance use disorder, and since the year 2000 over 700,000 Americans have died from drug overdose. In this Spero Health Clinical Insights series, we take a deeper dive in some of the most common and complex clinical issues facing providers on the front lines working to fight the drug epidemic. To learn more about clinically effective ways of assisting this patient population tune in now.
Spero Health Clinical Insights
Spirituality in the Recovery Journey
Welcome to Episode 24 of the Spero Health Clinical Insights Podcast! In this special episode, we flip the script—Dave Hoerman takes over as host while David Hayden, LCADC and Senior Vice President of Clinical Services at Spero Health, steps into the guest seat. With over 25 years in behavioral health and more than a decade at Spero Health, David brings a powerful perspective shaped by his early work as a counselor and his continued focus on breaking down barriers to increase access to quality care.
This conversation explores the often misunderstood role of spirituality in recovery—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters. David shares how spirituality differs from religion, emphasizing that spirituality is about discovering internal purpose, restoring hope, and finding connection to something greater than oneself.
Together, David and Dave discuss how spirituality helps people regain clarity, build insight, and reestablish a sense of belonging—critical elements for healing in a disease rooted in disconnection. They also explore how spiritual growth can lower anxiety, increase optimism, and help individuals rediscover meaning as they move through recovery.
For providers and treatment teams, this episode offers practical ways to support the development of spirituality in treatment—by helping patients recognize their progress, practice gratitude, build confidence, and feel connected to something bigger than their addiction. Whether you're a clinician, a person in recovery, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of the human side of healing, this episode offers thoughtful guidance and encouragement on the journey to wholeness.