In this insightful episode, Don Carter sits down with Phineas M, a fellow traveler in recovery, to explore the Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) program—now more broadly known as Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families. Together, they discuss how childhood experiences in less-than-nurturing environments shape adult behavior and emotional health, even when addiction wasn’t part of the picture.
Phin shares his personal journey into ACA, clarifies the distinctions between ACA, ACOA, and other 12-step fellowships, and explains why ACA’s structured, no-crosstalk format is uniquely healing for those who grew up silencing their truth. He also touches on ACA’s origins, its psychological roots, and the legacy of Tony A., who helped shape the fellowship’s foundation with the “Laundry List” of traits.
Recorded in 1:1 Studio B at the Serenity Cafe Recovery Center, this episode is especially valuable for those exploring inner child work, Internal Family Systems (IFS) or seeking safe, structured community support group.
Phin also shares plans to launch an ACA group at The Serenity Cafe Recovery Center using the newcomer-friendly book A New Hope. The first meeting will be Friday June 20, 2025 at 10 AM Central Time.
👉 Have questions or interested in joining or starting a group? Comment below, or reach out to Don at support@serenitycreationsonline.com or Phin at phinmarr@gmail.com.
Share this post