Sober Dating: Building Real Connection Without the Booze

Dating when newly sober can be intimidating, especially if drinking has always been part of how you socialise, relax or meet new people. But sobriety can offer a powerful advantage in the dating world: deeper presence, clearer judgement, and the ability to build genuine relationships without the distortion of alcohol. This masterclass explores how sobriety can become a true “dating superpower,” helping you show up authentically, remember meaningful conversations, and accurately assess compatibility.

‍

In this masterclass, Clean Slate Clinic’s Fiona Faulkner and SMART Recovery Facilitator Chris Gimpel guide participants through the foundations of intentional dating, beginning with self-awareness. Attendees will explore attachment styles, relational patterns, personal triggers and the internal narratives shaped by past experiences.

‍

‍

Watch the recording to learn:

‍

✅ How to reframe sobriety as your dating superpower

✅ What your attachment style reveals about your dating patterns

✅ Practical tools to calm anxiety and stay grounded on dates

✅ How to set boundaries that stick and protect your peace

✅ Creative alcohol-free date ideas that build real connection

✅ A 30-day sober dating plan to help you date with confidence

‍

‍

Resources:

‍

Pre-Session

‍

Dating Clarity Worksheet

Before watching the masterclass, complete this reflection to gain clarity on your dating patterns, boundaries, and intentions.

Dating-Clarity-Worksheet.pdf

‍

Post-Session

‍

Post-Date Worksheet

Complete this reflection after each date to check in with how you felt, spot red flags or green flags, and decide what comes next.

Post-Date-Worksheet.pdf

‍

‍

Further Support:

‍

Safety

• eSafety Commissioner‍
  Practical guidance on staying safe when dating online.

‍

Online resources

• The Gottman Institute
  Evidence-based relationship research and tools focused on communication, trust, and emotional connection.

• Relationships Australia
  Counselling and relationship support services across Australia.

‍

Books

• It begins with you: The 9 Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life - Jillian Turecki
• Love Life - Matthew Hussey
• The Unexpected Joy of Being Single - Catherine Gray
• The 5 Love Languages - Gary Chapman

‍

Podcasts

• Jillian on Love
  Conversations on attachment, dating patterns, boundaries, and emotional growth.

‍

Speakers:

‍

Fiona Faulkner | Clean Slate Clinic

‍

Fiona is the Managing Director at Clean Slate Clinic and has a background in nursing, social work, and mental health. Her journey led her to specialise in alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselling, where she found her true passion. As one of Clean Slate's first nurses, Fiona values the continuity of care she can provide to clients throughout their recovery journey.

‍

Chris Gimpel | SMART Recovery Facilitator, Sober Coach & Lived Experience

‍

Chris brings a deeply personal and professional perspective to sober dating, shaped by his own recovery journey after two decades in high-pressure corporate roles. Now a Sober Coach and SMART Recovery facilitator, he supports others navigating alcohol-free living through evidence-based tools and empathy. Chris speaks openly about identity, connection, and the challenge of relearning how to relate to ourselves and others without alcohol - especially in the dating world. His lived experience gives him a grounded, compassionate lens on the emotional ups and downs of dating in sobriety.