Vanisa Trani (NCPRSS) & Crystal Hannig (LCSW) from High Desert Counseling (HDC), join host Jared Miler (CASUDC) in this first-of-its-kind "Meet the Staff Series". These three speakers work professionally in the field of adult substance use disorder treatment. Crystal (Clinical Director & General Manager) starts the episode off by sharing what she thinks makes HDC unique/special. She shares about "The Pretzel Effect", where the goal at HDC is to get the clients set up with an independent mental health therapist, independent medical provider, independent housing, vocational rehabilitation training, & employment services within the community. This is what makes HDC a progressive adult substance abuse treatment provider with a practical approach. In this application-to-life model, clients are not dependent on the treatment provider once services end. This approach assists the client in building a solid recovery foundation that gives them the best chance possible at maintaining long-term recovery (self-efficacy). Vanisa shares her personal journey of recovery & how she utilizes her experience to assist clients as a National Certified Peer Support Specialist. In the second half of this episode, the content shifts to organizations such as the Warf Rats (a group of concert-goers who have chosen to live drug and alcohol-free) & "code words" to utilize in public places to stay safe in recovery (I'm a friend of Bill & Bob). This episode is filled with great education & resources for family members of individuals who are struggling with addiction. It would also benefit individuals in early recovery learning to navigate concerts & social settings where alcohol is present. We hope you enjoy it!