Movie/TV Show Being Reviewed:
Celebrity Rehab

Reviewer:
Philip Clarke

Genre:
Reality TV

Movies/TV Shows:
TV Show

Suggested Age Range:
Adults Only

Age Range Explained:
Drug/alcohol use is shown and focus of show is on adults in recovery

Subject Headings:
Family dynamics, Grief & loss, Sexual abuse, Substance abuse-alcohol, Substance abuse-drugs

Review:
The VH1 reality show "Celebrity Rehab” featuring psychiatrist Dr. Drew Pinsky will likely provoke doubt as to its efficacy as a learning tool for counselor or client. However, do not be fooled by this show being a reality series; it is rich in content about addiction, recovery, and group therapy. The show follows several celebrities who enter a California rehab facility run by Dr. Drew in which episodes span from intake and detox to group process moments, individual therapy scenes, and graduation. A broad range of therapy issues are covered. Chyna, a former wrestler from television displays denial problems. Jaimee Foxworth, an actress and former child star is cannabis addicted and dispels the myth that marijuana addiction is not to be taken seriously. Ricco Rodriguez is a mixed martial arts fighter who has to work through his history of abuse during rehab. Jeff Conaway, star in Grease and "Taxi”, illustrates how pain problems can lead to addiction and also the danger of withdrawal symptoms.

 

Clients can benefit from having some of the recovery process demystified by the show. Be wary of the risk of triggering addicted clients due to drug use displayed at times during the show. I would not hesitate to use this in a substance abuse course to illustrate group and individual therapy of substance abuse skills and addiction concepts including co-dependency, enabling, relapse, and triggers. I have used the graduation format portrayed in the show in my own therapy groups at termination.