Tag: recovery

Older posts

Cycle-ology: A Passion Project Story

Posted on May 26, 2021 - 8:59 am by

For young men beginning their journey in recovery, one of the most common misconceptions is that once drugs and alcohol are given up, life is destined to be boring and empty. At Green Hill, we strive to make sure that our residents have ample evidence to the contrary.

Will (28) had been struggling with addiction for years, his world becoming smaller and smaller. He described living life feeling lonely, detached, depressed, and aimless. Despite recognizing the need for treatment, and appreciating the potential structure of a transitional living program, Will still harbored many concerns about recovery and how it would impose limitations on his life and future.

Drew (20) knew he needed help and wanted to change his trajectory, but he was worried about losing the freedom to pursue the things he loved while in treatment. One of the most important parts of Drew’s life was outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and he felt skeptical that he’d still be able to follow his passions during treatment. He wasn’t sure if a program like Green Hill would allow him any opportunities for fun or to pursue his own interests.

These concerns are common for incoming clients at Green Hill. They recognize that while structure is an important part of a sober living environment, they also desire space to explore and pursue their interests. We believe it is part of our mission at Green Hill to ensure our residents have ample support to pursue their passions. We have built a culture which encourages teamwork, human connection, and growth. For Will and Drew, we found some unique ways to help them feel like they belong and experience the freedom to explore. 

Working with Will and Drew, we found that a shared love of the outdoors and the support of our staff helped them become Green Hill’s resident expeditionary adventure team. As of this writing, Will and Drew have just returned from a self-planned camping trip and hike with other residents and are already planning the next one. And that’s not all!

In addition to hiking and camping, Will and Drew both enjoy biking. In fact, several other residents brought bikes and enjoy riding. The revelation that biking was a shared interest among residents inspired Will and Drew to create something cool for the house. As their service project, Will and Drew built a specialized bike rack and storage system to help accommodate all Green Hill’s bikers and outdoorsmen, current and future.

At Green Hill we are proud that our residents have an opportunity to pursue their passions in recovery, and feedback from residents tells us this support goes a long way at making recovery feel meaningful. 

As an example, Will told us: “I feel Green Hill does a great job in helping incubate client ideas and energy in a positive way.” 

Drew also found his passion project work at Green Hill very rewarding. He says: “It was great to revive my woodworking skills for our bike rack, and I enjoyed giving back to the house. It really felt like I accomplished something.”

We believe our cultural commitment to building exciting and fulfilling lives is key to our identity. We find that lasting recovery rests not in the absence of relapse alone, but in rediscovering the things which make our lives exciting as well. Drew and Will certainly accomplished something special and we thank them for leaving their mark on the Green Hill community.

Meet our Chief of Staff: Michael O’Sullivan

Posted on April 15, 2021 - 9:31 am by

Could we get some biographical information from you? Where you’re from, academic history, professional history, experiences in recovery, family life etc? 

I’m originally from Long Island, New York where I lived until college. I’m the eldest of four (1 younger brother and 2 younger sisters) and we are still close. After high school at an all-boys school I came down to North Carolina for school at Duke.

I had been drinking throughout high school and was suffering from untreated anxiety and depression. Slowly, I began withdrawing from my social and academic life. By the end of my freshman year, Duke had asked me to complete treatment or else I would not be allowed back at school. 

I remained in New York during the fall semester of 2014. During my semester off, I entered treatment and began working for Phoenix House, a substance use treatment center. Recovery transformed my life and I felt called to share that gift with others.

Returning to school in 2015, I majored in psychology, with the eventual goal of becoming a mental health counselor. I moved into a transitional living program as a condition of continuing my academic career at Duke. I learned how difficult the transition back into school can be and how important mentorship can be. 

After graduating in 2017, I began working with Green Hill.  I feel that we are providing the kind of service I needed to young men who are in the same boat I was in. Even with grad school now on my horizon, I hope I will always remain part of the Green Hill community. 

What precisely does the Chief of Staff at Green Hill do?

I wear a bunch of hats, but my primary responsibilities are to carry out the policies and decisions of the executive leadership team. For instance, I have been taking the lead on our policy initiatives on community engagement, environmental impact, and personnel development. I am also involved with our HR, insurance contracting, regulatory compliance, and developing new lines of service such as coaching and our medical practice. 

My second major role is as head of Green Hill’s Coaching Service. I draft and update our curriculum and have designed and implemented our program.

What made you want to work in the substance abuse field?

At the time of writing, I have been in recovery for almost seven years. I went to treatment at 19 and needed to live in a transitional program when I finally returned to school. I’m thrilled to work for an organization that offers the same opportunity to others that I had.

Since you’ve worked in several roles at Green Hill including Program Facilitator, what piece of advice would you give an aspiring professional?

I stayed curious, asked questions and slowly built up more responsibility over time. I found a mentor at Green Hill who encouraged me to step outside my box and start exploring other areas of the company. 

What keeps you coming back day after day?

At the risk of sounding corny again, our clients. Seeing the transformation in our clients is the most rewarding experience I’ve ever been a part of. Knowing that we are helping bright young men reach their potential is an incredible gift.

What do you believe makes Green Hill stand out in its field, and why?

Having been a client at a transitional living facility, I can say that Green Hill is one of the best programs in the country. The staff cares deeply about client success and building a culture of support and hope throughout our community. Everyone, from our CEO to our academic advisors build direct relationships with clients and participate in community events. Everyone in the organization works with a professional mentor and uses those lessons to inform their client interactions. 

When you’re not at work, what do you do to recharge your batteries?

I love to walk and listen to audiobooks. The weather in North Carolina is usually mild and I can walk for miles and reflect. I’m also a runner, and the many trails in the area offer a useful escape. Finally, I try to make time for coffee with friends on my days off and in the evenings. 

What makes Raleigh a superb environment for young people in recovery?

Raleigh has so many universities and industry leading companies that the area has become a magnet for young adults in recent years. As a result of this large influx, the number of young people in recovery in the area is relatively high.  As a result, Raleigh has seen the growth of a vibrant and dynamic community for young people in recovery.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? How has that advice affected your day-to-day?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received was to always search for ways to contribute in a situation, not just where I could benefit. That service mindset has opened doors and allowed me to become a dependable and valued member of Green Hill.

What’s the one message you’d like the parents and loved ones of our residents and clients to know?

I have worked, visited, and been a client at many transitional living programs. I can say that the team at Green Hill is unequivocally the best I have ever seen. From top to bottom we have hardworking, empathetic, and brilliant people who put their energy fully into client success. If I had to imagine a dream team for a young adult substance abuse treatment program, I would take the team at Green Hill in a heartbeat. 

QUICK FACTS ABOUT MICHAEL

Undergraduate school: Duke University

Favorite movie: Blade-Runner 2049

Favorite book: Hyperion

Favorite album: Lateralus by Tool

Dream vacation: I’d love to visit India and South East Asia

Favorite spot in Raleigh:  NC Museum of Art

Favorite meal: Pot roast and noodles 

Dream job as a child: I wanted to be an astrophysicist and invent faster than light travel.

One object you couldn’t live without, and why: I couldn’t live without shower speakers. Listening to music in the bathroom is amazing.

One thing everybody loves that you secretly hate, and why: I don’t like hotdogs, sausages, or bacon. I can’t explain it, just never liked the taste. 

Guiltiest pleasure: I will blast Hansen, the Backstreet Boys, and NSync all day long.

The Right Ingredients: A Passion Project Story

Posted on February 25, 2021 - 1:07 pm by

Will was a bit apprehensive before coming to Green Hill. Being in his late 20’s, his concern was whether or not he would connect with the community in the house because he figured he would be significantly older than most of the other guys.

“I was coming from a challenging period of my life,” says Will. “My addiction had taken me to a pretty lonely and dark place; living in a halfway house, drinking and getting away with it. I had to get up at 6am to drink in order to avoid withdrawals.”

Having been through treatment before, Will was anxious to progress in the program and as many Green Hill guys do, was wondering what his Passion Project might be. Immediately, he became an asset to the community with his empathetic listening and sharp sense of humor. 

Not long after his arrival, our team was overwhelmingly impressed by both Will’s intelligence and earnestness in recovery. He began contributing to our house the moment he arrived, and was always happy to talk to staff about a wide range of subjects.

However, it soon became apparent that Will wanted support in other areas of his life as well. One major area he wanted support in was in how to prepare delicious and healthy food.

This was an excellent opportunity for a Passion Project! We matched Will up with Chef Brian, a local chef who is also very active in recovery and frequents the Green Hill house.

Chef Brian agreed to begin meeting with Will to mentor him and provide cooking lessons. What emerged was a weekly personalized cooking class for Will. Will came in with a beginner’s mind and quickly absorbed important life lessons. Will noted “the most important things I learned was how to plan meals and effectively shop for groceries.” There were other benefits as well. Chef Brian made sure that Will learned multiple recipes, fundamental and advanced cooking and food preparation techniques. Ultimately Will became much more comfortable in the kitchen.

After several months, Will is an old hand in the kitchen and has become more comfortable in the community as well. “I felt really welcomed and supported by the community at Green Hill and was able to connect well with the guys here” says Will. 

Staff too noticed a change. “After Will began his cooking class I noticed a huge shift,” said Michael O’Sullivan, a Green Hill Program Facilitator, “he’s definitely become more comfortable and energized. One specific thing which has been awesome to see is how Will has taken an active role in cooking community dinner on Sunday nights.” 

Will also started to notice a change in himself, saying “I have become more comfortable being honest about when I am struggling and asking for help.” Since being at Green Hill, Will has begun working again full time and has plans to finish school. 

Will is still growing and adjusting to new challenges around food, Now that he’s working full time, keeping up with his healthy cooking routine has been a difficult balance to maintain. However, he still feels that Green Hill and his Passion Project have helped provide him a foundation to build upon and move forward.

Food knowledge has always been a part of our culture at Green Hill. On Sundays we have a community dinner where clients and staff make dinner for the whole community together.

Green Hill prides itself on its ability to facilitate enriching activities and pursuits for our residents. 

Ultimately, that’s what our Passion Projects are all about: helping our guys find their “thing” and then working out a plan of action to foster and support the pursuit of that passion. Our mission is always to bring hope and joy back into the lives of our young men. 

Meet Our Primary Therapist: Cassidy Conway

Posted on February 9, 2021 - 11:15 am by

First things first, could we get your name, job title, and academic qualifications?

My name is Cassidy Conway and I am a Primary Therapist at Green Hill Recovery working in both with our Transitional Living and the Community Outpatient Programs. I have a Masters in Counseling, am a National Certified Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate, and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. 

Could we get some brief biographical info from you? Hometown, previous experience, education, etc.?

I am originally from Wilmington, Delaware, directly outside of Philadelphia. I grew up with my parents and younger brother and I attended Drexel University for my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Behavioral Health Counseling. Ever since high school I knew I wanted to be in the helping field, and my co-ops (internships) gave me the opportunity to explore what I really wanted to do with my career. 

Initially I worked in sports psychology with youth developmental teams for the Philadelphia Union and helped uninsured hospital clients apply and receive Medicaid.  While working in the hospital, I witnessed horrendous treatment of individuals seeking help for their substance use and/or medical complications. I immediately saw the need for substance use counselors specifically and better patient advocates for those on their recovery journey generally. I began taking courses in substance use, joined a co-op where I facilitated transition into a residential treatment facility and the rest is history! My personal experience with loved ones drew me to working in the mental health field. 

I took a leap of faith and came down to North Carolina to pursue my Master’s program at University of North Carolina, Charlotte. There I completed two internships, one with veterans and military families and the second with men who experienced homelessness. I also worked for three years at UNC-Charlotte’s Collegiate Recovery program. This experience shaped me as a professional and increased my desire to work with young people. I especially enjoyed how my role created an opportunity to educate the community and provide settings in which students could have fun in recovery. 

What’s the most satisfying part of facilitating a group therapy session?

Personally, I love what the community members bring into a group session. Their insight, intelligence, humor, kindness, and love towards one another is incredibly powerful. They are the life and heart of the group. 

What do you believe makes the Green Hill Community Outpatient Program stand out in its field, and why?

Our Community Outpatient Program stands out in so many ways to me, although I’ll admit I am a little biased! Ultimately, we are a realistic and honest program, in the sense that we are understanding of the challenges faced by our community and don’t set unrealistic expectations for our members. By setting realistic goals, we encourage our group to have fun together. 

We are a young community, and so offering fun and engaging activities is critical for our members. We are honored to be able to offer this as a component of our programming and that is where I see us really standing out in recovery services.

When you’re not at work, what do you do to recharge your batteries?

I have a routine self care practice to help recharge my batteries. That includes spending some time outside, practicing yoga, and enjoying some crappy reality TV. In addition, I am a huge Eagles fan, so during the fall I am always watching football. During the off season I enjoy watching Carolina basketball and the Carolina Hurricanes. 

What made you want to work in a) the clinical field generally and b) substance abuse specifically?

During my high school years mental health issues were prevalent with my peers and in my family, but it was very rarely talked about or addressed directly. Our culture and the stigma associated with mental illness would sweep it under the rug. I always found myself being a listening ear or support and recognized it was a vocation I wanted to pursue. It wasn’t until my experience working in a hospital that I knew how  important it was for me to pair my passion for counseling with both mental health and substance use. I was grateful Drexel had a program with robust courses specific to substance use counseling. I then completed an internship with a residential program that really reinforced for me how much I loved the people and the work.

What’s one memory you’ll always take with you from your time here in Green Hill?

One memory I will always take from Green Hill is the love and genuine kindness within the staff. All our staff meetings are so much fun to be a part of because each member is valued and appreciated for their role, and that’s something you can really feel. The fun we all have together is amazing. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? How has that advice affected your day-to-day?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received may sound a bit unusual, but it has stuck with me over the years. During our first day of class, one professor told us “you are a part of the problem, be aware of that,” and it totally took us aback. This has affected my day-to-day because it reminds me that personal growth should never end. I explore my biases, enter into difficult conversations, and continue to be a forever student of life. 

What does your ideal day look like?

My ideal day would be spending time on the beach getting lost in a book, followed by spending time with family and having a meal together. Then when it is not too hot or cold out, setting up a bonfire and continuing to spend time with the people I love!

What’s one message you wish our community program participants at Green Hill would always take with them?

“Find the beauty in each day.” We so often get caught up in the past and worry about the future that it can be difficult to be in the moment, especially during early recovery. Finding the beauty in each day could be something beautiful we see, hear, achieve, and so much more. Each day is a gift and I am grateful and honored  to spend my time and days with our community members and Green Hill staff. 

Quick Facts about Cassidy

Undergraduate: Drexel University

Graduate school: The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Desert Island movie: Mrs. Doubtfire

Book: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer

Album: Beyonce – Beyonce. 

Favorite color: Green

Top Karaoke Song Choice: Mr. Brightside by The Killers

Ideal lunch: Poke

Favorite spot to visit in Raleigh: All the local trails and parks

Favorite meal: Burgers and Fries (I love trying burgers with unique toppings)

Dream job as a child: Veterinarian

Meet Our Clinical Director: Matt O’Connor

Posted on November 30, 2020 - 5:05 pm by

Could we get some brief biographical information from you? Hometown, previous experience, education, etc.?

I grew up in a small town in New York called Silver Creek, about 45 minutes south of Buffalo, on a 75-acre farm. A little known fact is the majority of Welch’s Concord Grape Jelly comes from my neck of the woods. Some of my fondest memories growing up were when the whole 2,500 people, one-stoplight town, smelled like grapes.  

That being said, I didn’t feel like I fit the mold of country living, and after graduation moved to New York City and then Long Island for Undergraduate studies. At 19 I was introduced to mindfulness meditation, which has played an important role in my life. After being involved in a meditation group and having an awesome therapist, I shifted my focus from being a history teacher to psychology.  My therapist also recommended that I look into this little college in Boulder, CO that focuses on mindfulness-based psychology and counseling. After working in crisis intervention for 4 years in Buffalo NY, I felt like I hit a ceiling in my ability to help and made the decision to go to graduate school.  

At this point, mindfulness and meditation came back into my life and led me on a path of self-awareness and discovery that shapes much of my clinical practice currently. Through my own personal journey of self-exploration and recovery, I realized that we all have our stories and experiences that shape the person we are in this moment. With this understanding, I believe that by working in the present moment with client’s we are also helping heal the past.  

Moving forward I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings along the continuum of care for substance use disorder. I believe all of these varied experiences have shaped my approach at Green Hill. Working on a grant at UNC introduced me to collegiate recovery which really altered my approach to treating young adults, specifically around the importance of fun and self-efficacy in the recovery process.

From here I moved to Fellowship Hall, a large residential program, where I was given the opportunity to help develop their young adult programming. Throughout my journey, I have always been a firm believer in the healing power of nature and being outside (I’m a big rock climber and hiker). I transitioned into Wilderness therapy where I ran a SUD group for adolescents; I loved it. I kept feeling the pull to return to working with the population that I am most passionate about, which is young adults. This led to joining Green Hill, which I will talk a bit more about below.

What made you want to work in a) the clinical field generally and b) substance abuse specifically?

I was always drawn to the idea of helping people even at a young age: especially after the moment I realized I was not going to be a professional athlete at my size (I’m a small guy).  Initially, the idea was to teach but shifted to clinical work by a recommendation from my therapist at the time.

I was actually hesitant to work in the substance abuse field; being a person in recovery I think gave me a distorted belief about what this looked like. The world really had different plans however and I found myself working with individuals seeking recovery my entire career. The ability to define and look at what it means to me to be a therapist in recovery has been a journey in and of itself.  Now, I couldn’t imagine doing anything different.  

What do you believe makes Green Hill stand out in its field, and why?

There are two things that really stand out to me about Green Hill: the first is our organization’s commitment to its values which informs all of the decisions we make. This in itself is not unique, but I believe the fact that individually we share similar values to the organizations keeps us aligned and making decisions in a way that always considers our client’s best interests first.

The second being our holistic approach to the recovery process. We approach the recovery process not only as an internal process but also as helping our guys externally build a life that continues to reinforce their commitment to recovery. I believe that some of the most influential experiences our guys can have are those that help them understand that recovery is not just about sacrifice but being able to fully engage with the world: going to school, concerts, dating, etc. 

What’s the one message you’d like the parents and loved ones of our residents to know?

I really believe the recovery process is a family journey. It requires everyone involved to do their own personal work for the change to fully manifest. So in short I think it’s important for families to know they may be working as hard as our client’s in this process.  

What makes Raleigh a superb environment for young people in recovery?

The amount of young people  in recovery is one side of it. The other being the access to education and career opportunities in the triangle really open a lot of doors for young adults.

What does your ideal day look like?

A day that involves me climbing on rocks and being outside with my dogs and family is an ideal day. 

Who has had the largest influence on your personal/professional development, and why?

I really feel like I learn through others so the majority of people I run into are teachers to me in some way. If I had to pick one it’s my wife. Our personalities are actually quite different but her capacity to be organized and efficient is a marvel to me. 

Quick Facts about Matt

Favorite movie: E.T

Favorite book: 100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Favorite album: 2014 Forest Hills Drive by J.Cole

Favorite podcast: Ear Hussle or The Black Tapes

Talent show skill: Dribbling a soccer ball

Mountains or beaches: Mountains

Guiltiest pleasure: Right now, Call of Duty

One object you couldn’t live without, and why: Climbing shoes – can always find something to climb.

One thing everybody loves that you secretly hate, and why: Onions. It’s not a secret for me. They taste bad.

Dream job as a child: Besides professional athlete, a History Teacher

Upcoming Virtual Parent Support Group – Tuesday 12/8 at 7pm ET

Posted on November 20, 2020 - 3:30 pm by

Click here to register for the December Parent Support Group session

Green Hill is pleased to offer our Virtual Parent Support Group on Tuesday, December 8th at 7pm, open to any parent concerned about the substance use or abuse by their adolescent or young adult child. The main topic for the group this month is boundaries. 

Having clear boundaries with a young adult in active addiction and/or early recovery provides a framework for expectations on both sides.  Learning which boundaries to set, how to communicate them and the healthiest ways to enforce them are some of the hardest questions for parents. 

Join Matt O’Connor, Green Hill’s Clinical Director and boundary expert to learn effective strategies for setting and enforcing boundaries in the family system.

Here are some additional questions we’ll explore in the Parent Support Group:

  • What is an effective and ineffective boundary?  
  • What are the differences between personal and contact boundaries? 
  • How do we set boundaries as a family unit vs personal boundaries? 

The Parent Support Group offers psychoeducation by highly trained clinicians from the Green Hill staff and community of collaborators, along with opportunities for peer support, Q&A and resource-sharing. There is no cost or commitment to participate; just an opportunity to find support and guidance. 

Click here to register for the December Parent Support Group session

Color Coded: A Passion Project Story

Posted on November 9, 2020 - 8:16 am by

Our story begins, as many do, with a talented young man who felt very much “on the outside” when it came to social interactions. From there, Liam eventually gravitated towards both substance use and using art to express himself. At first, Liam only used drugs and alcohol occasionally with his peers, but his use began to ramp up dramatically as he got older. Unfortunately, the isolation and anxiety he felt only increased.

“Before treatment, my life was closing in on me and I saw no way out,” says Liam. “A few weeks before leaving for rehab I had a horrible LSD experience, and it only intensified the feelings of irrelevance and worthlessness. At the end of my active addiction I was doing nothing to better myself.”

Eventually, Liam’s parents found out about the scale of his use and decided to intervene. After attending a 90-day treatment program, both Liam and his parents were confused as to the next steps. Did he return home and potentially fall back into his previous cycle? Did he relocate to a new city? Or should he continue to engage in the treatment process in a more structured environment?

After some back and forth and counseling with the team at his rehabilitation clinic, Liam eventually decided to join Green Hill to further ground him in the culture of recovery.

One of the most exciting parts of watching residents enter our program is seeing what first ignites their passion. When he first arrived, Liam seemed unsure what to make of the Green Hill program. One day, our team at the house watched in amazement as Liam spent hours creating a complex and abstract art piece using just a pad of paper and colored pencils. Our team quickly found that the quickest way to get Liam to open up was to ask him about his art work.

“My art aids in my recovery because it provides an emotional outlet that I can always pick up,” says Liam. “My art really feels like my voice, and I love that I can speak through it at any time.”

When our program team mentioned spray painting at nearby NC State’s Free Expression Tunnel as a regular weekday activities, we saw Liam really come alive. Arming himself with a number of spray paint cans, Liam parked himself in front of a spare section of wall and worked on a single, elaborate design.

Recognizing the positive potential in Liam’s focus, our program team and Liam began planning his Passion Project. We scheduled a graffiti workshop for Liam and a couple other interested clients with Morgan Cook, a renowned muralist and graffiti artist whose works can be found all over North Carolina’s capital city.

“I really loved my graffiti lesson. Morgan is a very talented artist and he has so much knowledge about street art! He is also a fantastic teacher, and made the techniques and lessons very accessible,” says Liam. “Now, when I look at really elaborate tags I used to think as impossible, I see them as something I can accomplish. I think this will help me expand my abilities as an artist and I’m excited for the journey.”

Cook, who is perhaps best known for his impressive typography and The Alphabet Project, a partnership with the city of Raleigh where Cook embeds a single letter of the alphabet in notable spots across our city, also benefited from the lesson.

“Teaching the class for Green Hill was a humbling experience,” says Cook. “When I was younger, I always wanted someone to show me how things were done, so being able to pass on real knowledge about the culture was fulfilling. We talked about everything from spray paint control to the history of graffiti, and it seemed like they thoroughly enjoyed the class.”

In addition to Liam, another resident, Ian, a recent graduate to our step-down program, also attended the graffiti session.

Ian enjoys the therapeutic aspect of painting. Arriving at our program soon after the beginning of the pandemic, our offices are covered in canvases Ian has branded with his own style of oil painting. Even though Ian no longer lives in the Transitional Living house, he is often seen participating in our house activities, and jumped at the chance to learn some techniques from a master.

Whatever their passion is, Green Hill simply wants our residents to know that we are here to provide support for their healthy aspirations. As a team where many of us are in recovery as well, we understand first hand that a little support at a key period can make a lasting and life-changing difference.

We’re excited to see where Liam and Ian apply the lessons they’ve learned in their Passion Projects and thrilled to see what future residents might set out to accomplish!

While you’re here, check out a few of our previous Passion Project stories below.

Meet Our Executive Director: Nick Slovak

Posted on October 27, 2020 - 4:03 pm by

Could we get some brief biographical info from you? Hometown, previous experience, education, etc.?

I grew up in Long Island, New York. My parents divorced when I was young, and even though I grew up in the city, I always gravitated towards the outdoors. When I was 15, my family endured some significant struggles and my drug use really escalated as a result. I was in a pretty severe downward spiral, got kicked out of school and ended up at Summit Achievement, a wilderness program in Maine. This was a transformational experience for me; the Summit program was truly phenomenal. 

Things really turned around for me when I moved from the wilderness program into the Deck House School, a small boarding school located in Edgecomb, Maine. The structure provided really gave me some much-needed guidance, and their focus on experiential education engaged me in a way that I’d found difficult beforehand. At Deck House, they provided an individualized program that met me where I was at, and I appreciated that. 

Although my experience in wilderness and boarding school provided me a platform to begin addressing my trauma and anxiety, I found myself once more falling into the spiral of substance use. I returned to a residential treatment program and began a life abstinent of drugs and alcohol. After leaving treatment, both my family and I knew that I was going to need additional structure and support, and so I attended an extended-care sober living program. I really grew up in that program, and later went on to work at that same program for six years. 

After finishing my degree, I began working at the Council of International Educational Exchange as a Support Coordinator, where I was involved in program development and the safety and security for over 30,000 students from all over the globe. It was during my time working for the Council that Green Hill CEO Tripp Johnson approached me about joining his team.

What made you want to join the Green Hill team?

I found myself aligned with Tripp’s vision for Green Hill, specifically the academically-oriented way the program was designed. I can easily identify with our client population, as I personally struggled to get back on my feet scholastically after my time in treatment. Green Hill provides tools like academic consultancy and dedicated Intensive Outpatient time to academic goals as part its model. I firmly believe I would have benefitted from the Green Hill Model of treatment had it been available to me at that crucial point in my recovery journey.

This is just one of the many things that attracted me to join Green Hill, but it really stands out in my memory.

How did your own experiences in Transitional Living guide you to work in substance abuse?

I’ll be the first to admit that when I arrived in treatment, I wasn’t totally sold on the idea of lifelong recovery through participation in outside groups. What did eventually click for me was the strong community I developed at my extended-care sober living program.

A life of abstinence from drugs and alcohol seemed remote and abstract, but the bond that I built with those guys in that house is still a big part of my life today. I still find myself encouraging and being encouraged by the men I lived with, and that’s an experience I want available to all of our residents here.

What do you believe makes Green Hill stand out in its field, and why?

I think our curriculum is what makes Green Hill so unique. We’re constantly reaching out to experts to enhance our program offerings, and staff members like Academic and Career Counselor Hayat Shawwa help ground us with reasonable and experience-based input. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Hanging up on the wall in my wilderness therapist’s office was the phrase “Be here now.” At the time, I really couldn’t wrap my head around it, but within the last few years it’s been crucial to my personal development. There will always be worries and pitfalls, and they do need to be mitigated, but it’s essential to put things in perspective in order to remain effective. 

What’s one memory you’ll always take with you from your time here in Green Hill?

Without a doubt our Joint Commission Accreditation. I just loved how our team came together to focus on compliance and to ensure sure we provided the safest program available. It was a similar spirit to when the pandemic began; instead of focusing on the factors against us, we all jumped into together to make Green Hill happy and healthy.

What does your ideal day look like?

My ideal day would be waking up abroad, preferably a country in Asia, and to be living on the water. I’d drink some coffee and read in bed and then get up and explore. I love to travel – there’s something deeply thrilling about wandering in a strange land with no itinerary or set schedule. I’d spend all my time getting lost, finding the best food, seeing what exciting adventures I stumble upon and of course, taking lots of pictures.

What’s one message you wish our residents at Green Hill would always take with them?

Success is not always linear. I didn’t necessarily get this whole thing on the first try, but even my failures were rich experiences I could learn from and walk away from wiser.

Quick facts about Nick

Undergraduate school: University of Southern Maine

Favorite movie: Apocalypse Now

Favorite book: The Mayflower by Nathan Philbrick or A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway

Favorite album: Stadium Arcadium by The Red Hot Chili Peppers

Favorite Podcast: The New Yorker Radio Hour

Dream vacation spot: Sri Lanka

Favorite spot to visit in Raleigh: The Green Way

Favorite meal: Chicken Parmesan

Dream job as a child: President of the United States

Meet Our Primary Therapist: Casey Miller

Posted on September 14, 2020 - 5:34 pm by

Could we get some brief biographical info from you? Hometown, previous experience, education, etc.?

I’m from the Swamplands of Central Florida: Gainesville. Growing up in a college town, academia and the collegiate spirit were as present as the humidity or the mosquitoes. My dad was an administrator at the University of Florida, my mom went to graduate school there when I was a child, and my brother completed undergrad there when I was in high school. The culture and availability of academia to me were great privileges.

I spent the first 27 years of my life in Gainesville, and completed my undergraduate education in spurts at Santa Fe College and subsequently the University of Florida, studying Religion and English Literature with a focus on queer theory. After struggling in school as a teen, I ended up graduating summa cum laude from UF. However, like so many other liberal arts majors before me, I followed the legacy of working in the service industry after college as a cook and server.

I dabbled in teaching here and there. I had some volunteer gigs, but mostly, I was stagnating. It was during this time that I had my own experience with problematic substance use and subsequently found a recovery path. Confidence bolstered, I moved up to North Carolina to pursue my MSW at UNC-Chapel Hill and had my first internship at Green Hill. And now I’m back.

When I entered graduate school, I didn’t anticipate working in the substance use treatment field, but as our Clinical Director Matt O’Connor once told me, sometimes we don’t get to choose what we’re great at. Looking back, I can see how my experiences prepared me for just this role.

What do you believe makes Green Hill stand out in its field, and why?

What constantly impresses me about Green Hill is the way compassion and humanity permeate every level of the organization. There is never a point where care for our clients and staff are not at the center of decision making, especially when those decisions are hard. For example, I have seen our directors spend countless hours supporting client families even after their official time in our program. At the end of the day, everyone here shows up as a full person.

What keeps you coming back day after day?

This job is fun! There is truly no better feeling than watching someone get in touch with themself and start the process of growth. That and playing basketball with the clients…and our Program Coordinator, Jay Bylund. There are too many things to name.

What was your dream job as a kid, and why?

I wanted to be an architect, which, in retrospect, is madness. I would have cried everyday in architect school. I’m crying right now even thinking about being in architect school. Not to mention I can’t read a map or put together IKEA furniture correctly. I’m glad I’m a therapist.

What’s one memory you’ll always take with you from your time here in Green Hill?

This is less a single memory, but my favorite moments are from group therapy sessions. This is where the work that clients are doing truly shines. It’s amazing to see our guys support each other and show up as their true selves.

What’s one thing your hometown could be known for, and why?

There is this kind of underground artist named Tom Petty who grew up in Gainesville and started his career there. He had some modest hits, such as “Free Fallin’”, “Last Dance with Mary Jane,” and “American Girl.” You may have heard of him. 

What does your ideal day look like?

I wake up and eat some carrot cake with cream cheese icing for breakfast. Full pot of coffee already made for me by my friendly robot assistant. I go for a walk with a french bulldog. We’ve never met before. We become fast friends. His name is Pierre. He introduces me to his other friends, which include a lion and a bear who are nice. Solid friends. I return home and find that someone has installed a sparkling water tap in my house. How delightful and refreshing. I play some basketball with my friends, tend to my beautiful garden, and relax with my partner by a mossy rocky river. Returning to the rustic farmhouse that I own with no mortgage, my friends are there and we have a dance party. Today was a good day. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? How has that advice affected your day-to-day?

To go to community college! I had some serious growing to do after high school and I had to re-learn why I liked learning in the first place. Having the freedom to work and go to school at my own pace prepared me to crave knowledge and skill in a way that I could not have achieved otherwise.

What’s one message you wish our residents at Green Hill would always take with them?

It’s okay to not be okay. In fact, what we think of as “okay” is all relative and kind of made up anyways. Feel what you feel. It’s okay if it sucks or if it rocks. It’s all okay.

Quick facts about Casey

Undergraduate school: Santa Fe College & University of Florida

Graduate school: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Favorite book: The Watchmen

Favorite album: In the Aeroplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel

Favorite podcast: On Being with Krista Tippett

Dream Vacation: China

Top Karaoke Song Choice: Semi-Charmed Life by Third Eye Blind

Favorite spot to visit in Raleigh: Durham

Favorite meal: Medium rare burger with American cheese

Favorite house activity: Reading

Voices Heard: A Passion Project Story

Posted on September 8, 2020 - 8:04 pm by

A sad fact of substance use disorder is how it robs the sufferer of so much joy. Hobbies that once seemed to drive the sufferer fall quickly to the wayside. Often, intoxication is so mingled with activities and hobbies that people in recovery wonder whether they will ever be able to enjoy anything, much less branch into new areas. 

In our Transitional Living program, we’ve learned that a bored and disinterested resident typically doesn’t thrive in recovery. With that in mind, our Passion Projects initiative is working hard to facilitate our clients positive aspirations, and nowhere is that more evident than with our more musically-inclined residents.

Music plays an important role in our everyday lives, and so it naturally is ever present in our program. Whether music is playing in the van on the way to a 12-step meeting, is a part of a programmed activity, or one of the residents is selecting their favorite lofi mix for study hall, there’s always some sort of soundtrack unfolding on our campus. For some of our residents, listening to music isn’t enough. They feel a drive to create it.

Spearheading one of our first Passion Projects were two residents with a talent for hip-hop. At first just close friends with similar music tastes, they turned what was initially a fun pastime into something much more. Program Facilitator Caleb Barnhart saw the dynamic these two residents were achieving and knew it could motivate them further. 

“Recovery is both essential and fantastic for these guys, but it’s not something they can just talk about 24/7,” says Caleb. “I saw how excited and inventive these guys got while making music, and knew it was something we could use to push them in the right direction.”

Hooking the guys up with studio time and pragmatic goals to reach in exchange for meeting programming expectations turned out to be exactly the type of incentive they needed. Now independently living in the city of Raleigh, we’re happy to report that this artistic endeavor and the friendship that supports it continues.

A newer resident, Jack, is not someone who initially considered treatment as someplace to have fun. But when Jack heard about the Passion Projects initiative, he found himself feeling excited because he did have a passion he wanted to pursue. Jack reached out to Caleb and asked if Green Hill would be willing to connect him with a vocal coach to assist him with singing training. Of course, we were thrilled to do that.

Jack with his vocal instructor, practicing harmonizing.

Jack values his vocal lessons not only for the instruction, but the time it offers him to reflect. “Practicing singing helps me disconnect from whatever stressful environment I find myself in,” says Jack. “When I practice my passion, I feel like it’s aiding my mental and spiritual health. I like the lessons because they provide an outside connection, and my teacher is someone fantastic to talk to.”

In addition to providing a healthy outlet, Jack believes his vocal lessons have helped him become more invested in his recovery, feel more balanced, and able to identify more with other people in recovery, including other residents. Jack and one of our other residents, Garrett, have begun collaborating musically, Garrett playing guitar while Jack handles vocals. And now Garrett is taking vocal lessons himself and is loving it.

This is one of the greatest possible outcomes of a Passion Project, two residents from very different worlds now share a passion to reflect and build on. 

Most recovery solutions rely on one overarching principle: Success cannot be achieved alone. People in recovery must help each other, build a community, and foster healthy meaningful relationships. Our music-inspired Passion Projects are a great example of this happening in real time.

In both of these stories, we saw clients bond with someone else in early recovery and collectively focus on a passion that was not only healthy, but had depth and weight. These motivated young men have now reignited a lost passion, and decided to make it a foundational part of their new life in sobriety. 

Older posts
Green Hill Recovery Logo
Find Us
6124 St Giles St,
Raleigh, NC 27612