Hi, I’m a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CDAC), Associate Professional (AP), Certified Peer Support Specialist (NCPSS), and Master of Social Work (MSW) intern with a background in criminal justice and over five years of experience in substance use treatment. I currently serve as the Program Director of Enhanced Services, where I oversee SACOT, SAIOP, and Peer Support programming and help ensure individuals receive structured, consistent, and quality care throughout their recovery.

My years of experience as a substance use counselor have given me the opportunity to work with individuals facing addiction, involvement with the criminal justice system, housing instability, family concerns, and other challenges that can affect recovery and stability. Through this work, I have also seen how closely substance use and mental health are connected. That experience played an important role in my decision to pursue my MSW and expand my ability to support individuals with both substance use and mental health concerns.

As a Black male entering the social work profession, I also recognize the importance of representation. I have a particular interest in supporting young men and adolescents of color who may not always feel comfortable seeking help or may have difficulty finding providers they feel can understand their experiences. I want to help create a space where they can talk openly about mental health, substance use, relationships, family, identity, life pressures, and the expectations they may feel they have to carry without judgment. My goal is not to assume that every person has the same experience, but to provide a space where they feel respected, heard, and comfortable being themselves.

As an MSW intern, I am building upon the experience I already have in the substance use field while developing additional skills in mental health assessment, treatment, and social work practice. I am especially interested in working with men of color who may be misunderstood, overlooked, or dealing with several challenges at once. I believe effective treatment means looking at the whole person rather than focusing only on a diagnosis, behavior, or substance use.

My approach is supportive, direct, and grounded in accountability. I believe in meeting people where they are while also challenging them to recognize their strengths, develop healthier patterns, build structure, and take an active role in their growth. I understand that change does not always happen quickly, and sometimes the first step is simply having someone willing to listen without immediately judging or giving up on you.

In addition to my clinical and leadership experience, I am an EBPI trainer and facilitate CEU trainings for other professionals. Teaching and supporting other providers has strengthened my commitment to continued learning and professional development. My MSW training is the next step in that growth, allowing me to expand my knowledge of mental health treatment while bringing with me the experience I have gained through years of working in substance use services.

I believe substance use, mental health, and the circumstances happening in a person’s life are often connected. My goal is to continue developing into a well-rounded clinician who understands those connections and can provide adolescents, young men, young adults, and individuals of color with a place where asking for help is viewed as a strength and where they have the support, structure, and accountability needed to create meaningful change.