Inside the Mind of an Addiction Interventionist – with Heather Hayes

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Hanley Effect, we sit down with renowned addiction interventionist and mental health expert Heather Hayes, M.Ed., LPC, CIP, CAI. Known for her unflinching dedication to complex cases and deep compassion for families in crisis, Heather opens up about her personal journey from addiction to recovery, and the calling that led her to a lifetime of service.

From working with adolescents and families to training with the FBI in hostage negotiation, Heather brings unmatched insight into the worlds of trauma, addiction, and healing. She also offers an honest look into what it takes to sustain a career in mental health without losing yourself—and why staying humble, teachable, and connected is essential.

🎙️ Topics in this episode include:

• Heather’s early recovery and why it sparked her passion for working with teens
• What it really means to do ethical, skilled intervention work
• The role of trauma in addiction—and how EMDR and other modalities can support healing
• Her experience as a hostage negotiation expert and what it taught her about human connection
• The importance of early intervention and empowering families to seek help
• How professionals can protect their own mental health while serving others
• The message she wants every new therapist, clinician, or coach to hear

This episode is a must-listen for clinicians, students, families, and anyone working in—or touched by—the recovery world.

👉 Resources & More

Visit Heather’s website: www.heatherhayes.com

Learn more about Hanley Foundation programs: hanleyfoundation.org

Call for help or info: 844-502-4673