Great news, childofchaos! Having someone to confide in really helped me in early sobriety. While people sponsor folks differently, my first sponsor didn't rush me through the steps. Getting to know him gave me a firm foundation to work with. I know it's trite, but I feel the first word of the first step is the most important to my sobriety..."We." I can't stay sober alone.
Please keep us posted. I know it's tough struggling with addiction in addition to mental illness; I still go through rough patches. I hope you have great luck getting to know this woman.