admin In 1983, George Patriki made a life-altering decision—a choice that would not only transform his own life but also help countless others do the same. After struggling for seven years with addiction, George embraced a path of profound recovery. This wasn’t just a journey of self-healing; it was a decision to reinvent his purpose and become a beacon of hope for those facing similar struggles. With over 29 years of experience in addiction counseling, education, and clinical supervision, George has become a nationally respected leader in the field of mental health and addiction treatment, driven by a relentless passion for helping others reclaim their lives.
“Walking this journey of love is how I try to live, both in my workplace and outside.”
The Heart of Healing: Lived Experience Meets Clinical Expertise
George’s approach to addiction treatment is grounded in his own lived experience, making his work not only clinically proficient but deeply empathetic. Today, he serves as the Director of Gold Coast Addiction and Treatment Rehab, one of Australia’s most respected dual diagnosis programs. His work focuses on addressing both addiction and mental health disorders, understanding the complex interrelationship between trauma, dependency, and co-occurring disorders. George’s unique ability to blend clinical expertise with personal empathy has positioned him as a powerful force for change in the lives of those struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.
“Walking this journey of love is how I try to live, both in my workplace and outside,” George says. His personal journey of recovery informs his practice, allowing him to connect with clients on a level that few professionals can. This deep understanding of both the science of addiction and the emotional, psychological, and spiritual challenges people face on the road to recovery has been transformative for thousands of individuals.
The Integrative Holistic Framework: Beyond Traditional Treatment
What sets George apart from others in his field is his revolutionary approach to treatment. Through his creation of the Integrative Holistic Framework, George has redefined how addiction recovery is approached. This innovative model unites four key areas of a person’s life: biological, psychological, spiritual, and social. Drawing inspiration from prominent thought leaders such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Norman Doidge, and Bessel van der Kolk, George has incorporated cutting-edge therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), narrative therapy, and biochemical analysis. By customizing these therapies for each individual, George ensures that each person’s recovery journey is as unique as they are.
The Integrative Holistic Framework is not a one-size-fits-all approach—it’s a highly personalized recovery plan that addresses the multifaceted nature of addiction. By blending traditional therapies with alternative treatments such as massage therapy, neurofeedback, transcranial stimulation, and integrative medicine, George creates bespoke treatment plans that cater to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. This comprehensive approach allows clients to heal on every level—body, mind, and spirit—promoting long-lasting recovery rather than simply treating symptoms.
“The most important thing is understanding the individual,” George emphasizes. “Addiction and mental health challenges are not just about the substance—they’re about the whole person. My goal is to look at every aspect of their life, to find what’s working, and help them build a recovery plan that makes sense for them.”
A Global Educator: Changing Systems, Not Just Symptoms
George’s influence extends far beyond his clinical work. He is also an internationally respected educator, dedicated to bridging the gap between mental health and addiction services. Through his platform, Dual Diagnosis Training, George has empowered healthcare professionals in over 116 countries to improve their knowledge and skills in treating individuals with co-occurring mental health and addiction disorders.
His mission is clear: to change the way systems treat dual diagnosis cases and equip practitioners with the tools they need to effect meaningful change. George believes that healthcare systems must adapt to the unique needs of individuals suffering from both addiction and mental health issues, rather than treating these challenges in isolation. His Dual Diagnosis Training program provides critical education to professionals in the healthcare, welfare, and social service industries across Australia and the Gold Coast.
As a global educator, George’s work is not limited to clinical practice alone. He is committed to reshaping the way addiction and mental health services are delivered, and he does this by educating and empowering others to create a ripple effect of change across the world. The Dual Diagnosis Training platform has grown significantly over the years, offering courses, workshops, and certifications that help professionals stay on the cutting edge of dual diagnosis treatment. This commitment to education has not only improved the quality of care for individuals but has also influenced policy and treatment models on a larger scale.
Culture Rooted in Principle, Driven by Purpose
George’s leadership style is defined by the core values outlined in Dr. Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and he doesn’t just treat these principles as a framework for business—they are the way he lives his life. These values—trust, integrity, continuous growth, and meaningful collaboration—serve as the foundation for his interactions with both his clients and his team.
Under George’s leadership, Gold Coast Addiction and Treatment Rehab has cultivated an organizational culture that goes beyond symptom management. Rather than focusing solely on immediate treatment, the center’s approach is about creating deep, transformative change for clients. George instills in his team a shared vision of empowerment—helping individuals reclaim their potential and their future. This vision drives everything from clinical practices to organizational dynamics, ensuring that each client receives the support and respect they deserve.
“We focus on transformation, not just treatment,” George explains. “It’s about helping people heal in every area of their lives—emotionally, spiritually, socially, and mentally. It’s about preparing them for a life of resilience and fulfillment, not just sobriety.”
The Joy of Leadership: Changing Lives, One Legacy at a Time
For George, the true measure of leadership is not found in titles, accolades, or financial success. Rather, it is in the personal, often quiet moments of transformation that occur in the lives of those he helps. As Founder and CEO of Dual Diagnosis Training, and the Director of Gold Coast Addiction and Treatment Rehab, George’s most meaningful victories occur not behind a desk but in the recovery stories of his clients.
“To see a person’s life change is a joy—and knowing that generations after them may also be blessed by that change makes the journey worth it,” George reflects. This statement encapsulates the essence of his leadership. For George, leadership is not about power or authority—it’s about service, authenticity, and making a real difference in the world. He leads by example, walking alongside those he helps rather than standing above them.
His mission is personal: to break the cycles of trauma and addiction that often run through families and communities. By providing a pathway to recovery, George hopes to create lasting change—not just for individuals, but for future generations. His work is a testament to the power of recovery and the ability of one individual to change the trajectory of many lives.
“To see a person’s life change is a joy—and knowing that generations after them may also be blessed by that change makes the journey worth it.”
Conclusion: A Legacy of Healing and Transformation
George Patriki’s journey from addiction to leadership is a powerful example of the transformative power of recovery. As a counselor, educator, and innovator in addiction treatment, George has dedicated his life to helping others find their path to healing. His integrative approach to recovery, his commitment to education, and his focus on personal empowerment have made him a leader not only in Australia but also on the global stage.
Through Dual Diagnosis Training, George continues to shape the future of addiction and mental health treatment, leaving an indelible mark on the systems that support those in need. He remains committed to his mission of changing lives and empowering others to do the same. As he reflects on his journey, George’s message is clear: true leadership is not about power; it’s about purpose, service, and the lasting impact one can have on others’ lives.
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