Module 2: Treating the THC-Dependent Patient

Sober since 6/15/96, Ben has been involved in the recovery movement in almost every way imaginable, from a recipient to a provider to a spokesperson. He joined the field professionally in 2007, working in nonprofits, treatment programs, and consulting for athletics and organized labor.

Highlighted in his book, Weed, Inc.: The Truth About the Pot Lobby, THC, and the Commercial Marijuana Industry, and his TED talk “Surprising Truths about Legalizing Cannabis,” Ben has remained active in the discussion around marijuana, assisting several states efforts to hold back Big Marijuana and always advocating for recovery.

His reputation as pro-logic and recovery-oriented rather than anti-anything and his widely adopted curriculum on ethical treatment and practices have garnered national recognition. He is utilized by NFL and NCAA programs to determine the appropriate treatment for their athletes, coaches, and families and to develop recovery-oriented policies.

Ben transitioned from consultant to CEO of Foundry Steamboat in 2019. He is a board member for NALGAP (National Association of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Treatment Providers and their allies), a Board member at SAM (Smart Approaches to Marijuana), and a faculty at numerous institutes. In 2023, Ben launched Union EAP, providing union members nationwide mental health and SUD services.

Dr. Bader has worked in the mental health and addiction field for over 20 years. She graduated from the University of North Texas in 2007 with a PhD in counseling psychology and specialization in sport psychology, and completed her postdoctoral fellowship in Chemical Dependency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She is a Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Addiction Counselor, and Certified Mental Performance Consultant working with elite athletes and teams.

Dr. Bader has worked in a variety of treatment settings including residential, outpatient, private practice, and Native American health care. She spends time in the sport environment in collegiate athletic departments, working with professional teams and organizations, and Olympic athletes. She currently compliments the multi-disciplinary team at Women’s Recovery by serving as the Chief Clinical Officer, advancing treatment for women. In addition, she maintains a private practice offering counseling, consultation, educational presentations, and sport psychology services. She authored a chapter in the evidenced based book, Cannabis in Medicine. She serves on the Speakers Bureau for the National Marijuana Initiative as a cannabis subject matter expert on emerging research, addiction and treatment.