interview

Chris Gimpel — SMART Recovery Staff Perspective

As told by Chris Gimpel · Pyrmont, NSW

The SMART Stories photography project showcases images captured by SMART Recovery participants and facilitators, highlighting their personal journeys of recovery and transformation. These images will be displayed at the upcoming SMART Recovery awards ceremony, where attendees can connect with and be inspired by these visual narratives of hope and change.

The storyteller

Chris Gimpel

Pyrmont, NSW

Chris Gimpel's journey from battling a 20-year dependency on alcohol to becoming a facilitator at SMART Recovery Australia showcases the transformative power of community and self-discovery through photography. His unique approach to recovery, leveraging the online format of SMART meetings and the expressive medium of photography, offers valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of creative expression and the importance of flexible recovery pathways. Chris's story highlights the significance of visualizing a life beyond addiction and the role of companionship and new experiences in fostering a sense of hope and possibility. Strengths: Using personal passions (e.g., photography) to aid recovery, Leveraging online platforms to enhance accessibility.

Their public page