How lived experience and humor-based approach help behavioral health professionals strengthen engagement, connection, and healing in addiction treatment
By Doug Edwards
SVP, Behavioral Health & Senior Living
HMP Education
Every family touched by addiction carries a story of fear, resilience, and hope.
For Tom Farley, that story shaped the way he understands recovery, connection, and the healing power of humor. Long before audiences knew him as a national speaker or as the brother of the late comedian Chris Farley, he was simply a family member doing his best to support someone he loved through substance use disorder. Those experiences continue to guide his work today.
At the Rx and Illicit Drug Summit, behavioral health professionals will have the opportunity to learn from that lived perspective during the session “The Healing Power of Humor: Connecting Through Laughter in Recovery,” taking place Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM. Farley will join Rx Summit Board Member Andrew Schreier, ICS, CSAC, LPC, ICGC-II, BACC to explore how appropriately used humor can ease stress, build trust, and strengthen therapeutic relationships.
Farley describes this approach as the product of years of personal growth and reflection.
“I now try to bring my authentic self to all aspects of my personal and professional life,” he said. “And while humor and recovery have clearly played a central role in this, finding the right balance has been a journey of discovery and healing. I’m excited to bring the story of that journey to Rx Summit, and to show attendees how laughter can be a powerful tool to cope, to connect, and to heal.”
Schreier and Farley’s session offers practical guidance for clinicians seeking to deepen connection in individual and group settings. Participants will gain evidence-based strategies for using humor responsibly, insights into avoiding misinterpretations such as denial or avoidance, and demonstrations of techniques adaptable to diverse client needs. Their message reinforces that laughter, when used thoughtfully, can help clients feel safe, understood, and more open to therapeutic engagement.
Session Information
Title: The Healing Power of Humor: Connecting Through Laughter in Recovery
Date & Time: Tuesday, April 7 | 10:30 AM–11:45 AM
Format: 75-minute interactive session
Event Details
- Event: Rx and Illicit Drug Summit
- Dates: April 6–9, 2026
- Location: Nashville
- Event Website
- Registration
About the Speakers
Tom Farley is Community Outreach Director of Recovery.com. He is a recovery advocate whose lived experience and nonprofit leadership have shaped his work helping communities reduce stigma and find hope.
Andrew Schreier, ICS, CSAC, LPC is Clinical Director, Community Medical Services. He is a clinical leader specializing in substance use and mental health, presenting nationally on counseling, ethics, and recovery-focused practices.