"My own journey keeps me interested because of the ever-changing landscape of my own challenges and the parallels they have to the other aspects of my life."
How do you define success?
Becoming goal-oriented. Success means to me progressively working towards a worthwhile goal.
What is a typical day and week like for you?
Volunteering and Facilitating. Right now, I volunteer my time to peers in my network mostly by phone. I also facilitate groups in a Clubhouse setting, Youth Group, Substance Abuse, Anger Management, and Relationships. I also attend staff meetings and I'm currently waiting on a caseload.
What's your advice for those entering the field?
Get Training. It is so important to get a wide range of trainings in as many areas as you can. A diverse knowledge base will benefit you greatly as you encounter individuals with their varied and diverse challenges.
What wellness tools do you use in your own life?
Staying connected. Read. Participate. It is important for me to stay connected with my own support network. The discipline of reading good literature is so invaluable to me. It is also vital for me to participate in online support groups.
What have been your most rewarding experiences?
Working with Youth and Young Adults. I've learned more about myself by working with them and their issues that I still deal with as an adult. They help me in light of my recovery and my own challenges.
What motivates and inspires you to "keep at it"?
My own recovery journey. My own journey keeps me interested because of the ever-changing landscape of my own challenges and the parallels they have to the other aspects of my life.
What are your recommendations towards professional development?
Getting a W.R.A.P. Plan. A WRAP Plan is essential to my professional development and my personal wellness ( in my own estimation). Everything seems a lot clearer when you completely understand yourself in light of your recovery.
What recovery champions most inspire you?
Jorea Hardison (with PARfessionals) and Mike Weaver (with Cardinal Innovations) have greatly inspired me. Also Bob Evans, Fonda Bryant, Jeffrey Wisdom (of NAMI Of Charlotte), and Cherene-Allen Caraco (of Meck Promise). All of these individuals are recovery champions and they are doing great things here in Charlotte and for the Recovery Movement.
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