About Me
4 plus years experience in recovery, 24 years in the pizza business including my own in 2002 bought my first and built it up to 5 locations
My name is Jamie, and I am an alcoholic and an addict. I have been in recovery for over 4 years and have had the privilege of helping others who suffer from addiction and mental illness.
I know the struggles this disease brings. The suffering, the loss of relationships, health issues financial hardship, and legal repercussions. I am living proof that anyone battling with addiction and/or mental illness can make changes and live a life of recovery. Through treatment, seeking guidance from professionals, and working a recovery program, I have learned how to have a happy,life after fulfilling.
Here's a glimpse of my story:
I worked in the pizzeria business for 24 years before I got sober. 17 of those years owning my own and building it up to 5 locations. It was built from the ground up with the purchase of a rundown location. Investing all my savings into the vision and plan of creating a successful business, I had a good life. Three beautiful daughters, investment properties, vacations, saving, stocks, IRAs. From the outside, I had the perfect life. And then, like so many of us, the years went by, and so did the acceleration of my drinking. Pretty quickly after I became successful, I was drinking or using some kind of substance every day. This turned into drinking and driving, not maintaining my commitments personally and professionally, and letting down the people who depended on me. Over time, I lost everything.
No more business, no marriage, no money, relationships ruined, legal issues. I put my children and loved ones through so much pain, sorrow, and disappointment. When I finally went to treatment, I felt completely broken. I went to detox and stayed for residential, then moved out to a long term partial hospitalization program (PHP) and intensive outpatient program (IOP). While in IOP, I obtained a get-well job. This allowed me to focus on my recovery and to start the process of repairing my relationships. Getting help was the best thing I ever did. It saved my life.
After completing 208 days in treatment, I began working in treatment and helping other people who are just like me. I have since worked my way through different jobs, such as Recovery Support Services, Case Management, Patient Engagement Coordinator, and being part of a Crisis Team. I did my schooling for my CRSW and passed my test last year.
Now let’s talk about present day. Since last year, I have been guiding clients to help them in their new recovery journey. Everyone’s journey is different and I use an individualized approach with each person I help. I educate on the Model of Addiction, mental health issues and I share openly how I got to where I am today – happy, healthy & sober.
If you’re ready to make changes, and want me to help you, here is what you can expect:
- Recovery Coaching
- Life coaching
- Self-help meetings & increasing social supports
- job hunting, financial planning, all things vocational
- One on one sessions
I also have a program specifically for Executives or Business owners and for single parents when inpatient treatment is not a realistic option.
I have rebuilt my life. I have repaired my relationships with friends, old colleagues, and family (most importantly, with my children). I made amends with my Mom before she passed 2.5 years ago. I have been able to help my brother get to treatment and enter a life of recovery. I have a good professional career, a healthy, two- year relationship with my girlfriend, Katie, and I have good mental health and am someone others can depend on. I can show you what worked and what didn’t work, and we will find solutions that meet your needs.