My journey into the world of mental health and addiction recovery began in 1992 when I made the life-changing decision to get sober. That choice set me on the path of service, first in recovery centers, where I discovered a passion for helping others. Inspired by this work, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Mental Health and Human Services with a minor in Psychology. While earning my degree, I worked in the Drug and Alcohol program at Bethesda Oak Hospital, helping establish a targeted Polysubstance Abuse Program. That experience ignited a deeper drive to assist individuals battling substance use disorders.
From there, I accepted a position at River City Correctional Center, where I began as a clinician and eventually worked my way up to Clinical Coordinator. It was there that I truly found my calling—working with criminal offenders struggling with addiction, particularly those involved in drug trafficking. I spent a decade at River City, gaining invaluable experience and furthering my education. I was honored to receive a full scholarship to the University of Cincinnati Correctional Institute, where I earned my master’s degree in criminal justice Rehabilitation.
At UC, I had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Paula Smith and Dr. Latessa on a research project evaluating evidence-based practices using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Therapeutic Community (TC) programming for offenders. This opportunity allowed me to travel, evaluate treatment programs, and provide training to correctional facilities on implementing CBT-based rehabilitation strategies. I also became a certified trainer for the Thinking for a Change curriculum, further solidifying my expertise in offender rehabilitation.
After completing my master’s degree, I went on to help develop programs for two other treatment centers before taking on the role of Program Director for the Kentucky Department of Corrections in 2009. In this position, I designed and implemented a substance use disorder (SUD) program at Grant County Detention Center, where I worked for six years, integrating evidence-based CBT/TC models into the correctional system. My passion for this work led me to other roles at Sojourner Recovery Services and Lebanon Correctional Institute, where I continued advocating for and supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.
In 2022, my life took a devastating turn when I lost my daughter to addiction. The grief was overwhelming, and I knew I needed time to heal. I stepped away from my work at the prison, allowing myself space to process this profound loss.
After weeks of soul-searching, I felt ready to return to the field and reached out to Susan Boyd, a former colleague from Sojourner’s. She welcomed me into the team at Modern Psych Wellness, a place where I have rediscovered my passion and purpose. I firmly believe that God led me here, providing me with a renewed sense of mission.
Today, I serve as a Chemical Dependency Counselor for the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for Modern Psychiatry and Wellness. We currently operate three sober living houses, with a fourth on the horizon. My role is more than just a job—it’s a calling. I help residents navigate the challenges of early recovery, providing therapy, group facilitation, and the structure they need to build a foundation for long-term sobriety.
Working at Modern Psych has been an incredible experience. I feel supported, encouraged, and continuously inspired to learn and grow. The ability to guide individuals toward healing while serving God in the way He has equipped me is a privilege I do not take for granted.
Outside of my work, I find joy in quilting. It’s a creative outlet that allows me to relax and connect with friends at quilt retreats and weekend getaways. And as I reflect on my own journey, I am continually amazed that I have been clean and sober for 32 years—a milestone that once seemed impossible but is now a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of transformation.
As I look to the future, I am grateful to be exactly where I am meant to be. My journey has been one of struggle, learning, and deep purpose, and I hope to continue this work at Modern Psych until I retire.
