Recovery with intention.
Four Virtues Recovery is developing educational tools that connect time-tested philosophical ideas with modern approaches to recovery.
About Four Virtues Recovery.
Four Virtues Recovery (FVR) is an emerging addiction recovery education program developed in Brandon, Manitoba. It is founded on the idea that recovery is not only about changing behaviour; it is also about developing character, strengthening values and learning to approach life differently.
Inspired by Stoic thinkers including Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, FVR explores the difference between what we can influence and what we cannot. It encourages reflection, intentional action and responsibility without demanding perfection.
These principles connect with contemporary counselling concepts: CBT examines relationships among thoughts, feelings and behaviours, while ACT emphasizes psychological flexibility, acceptance and values-guided action. FVR uses these connections as an educational framework; it does not claim to be a new clinically validated treatment.
Meet Ben Hunter.
Ben Hunter is an addictions counsellor and social service work student based in Brandon, Manitoba. His experience in addiction recovery and his personal interest in Stoic philosophy inspired him to develop FVR.
Through his work and studies, Ben identified practical connections between Stoic teachings and contemporary counselling approaches and began creating a structured program to make those ideas accessible to people in recovery.
Ancient Wisdom.
Modern Recovery.
Our Vision.
To develop FVR into a practical, respected recovery education program that organizations can use to support personal growth, emotional resilience and values-based action, with the long-term possibility of training other facilitators.
Wisdom to understand. Courage to act. Justice to connect. Temperance to respond.