Ginger Berkelhamer

I was born and raised in NYC. A child of privilege; Park Avenue upbringing
and private schools. Most people would have been envious of my life. But
from the age of 8, I knew I was different. I was sneaking drinks after my
parents’ cocktail parties. By the time I was 14, I was out in nightclubs
(Studio 54 and Xenon) mostly. I thought I was so cool. However, I was a
full blown cocaine addict and alcoholic. My parents were none the wiser for
being the youngest, my parents were not paying too much attention.

Miraculously, I made it through George Washington University in 4 years
(and 4 summers!) I landed a job with a prestigious advertising agency
(Ogilvy & Mather). I fit right in! Drinking was encouraged at lunch and
partying into the late hours was the norm. I met my future husband there
and four years later, we wed. I always had a huge hole inside me that I
would fill with drugs and alcohol and this man was just another “substance”
I used to try and fix my unhappiness. When that didn’t work, I decided that
it was time to have a baby. Totally delusional and misguided, I convinced
my husband and 1 year later, our daughter was born. Needless to say, she
did not fix me! The next four years were torture. I drank and smoked
marijuana continuously while trying to deal with the trials of a newborn/
toddler. I was ill-equipped to care for her let alone myself. I was miserable
and only lived to get high.

One night, I was so depressed that I locked myself in the bathroom and
threatened suicide. My husband had to knock down the door and when I
looked up, my crying daughter was standing there. I knew at that moment,
it was over.

I immediately went to AA and found a fellowship of people who were just
like me. It took time to clear up, for I had done so much damage to my
mind and my body. I worked really hard to love myself so I could give that
love to my husband and daughter. Everyday I stay grateful that I am alive
and have healthy relationships with those around me. I have been sober
since May 22, 2000. I never want to return to a life of addiction.

As a Certified Life Coach, I help people who suffer from addiction. I have
relationships all over the United States from Interventionists, to treatment
centers. I work with my clients through the process of getting treatment all
the way to creating a life for sustainable sobriety. Everyone has a different
path and I tailor my work to meet each client wherever they are and at
whatever pace they need.

My husband and I currently live in Warren, VT home to Sugarbush Ski
Resort. We both enjoy winter activities as well as biking, kayaking and
hiking in the summer. Our daughter is a Junior at The University of
Vermont studying Animal Science. I can honestly say today I live as a
functioning, contributing member of society and for that I am eternally
grateful.

To Contact Ginger Berkelhamer:

Cell: 802-477-2360
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.gingerbcoaching.com