September marks National Recovery Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about substance use treatment and mental health services that help people live healthier lives. The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shows that in 2021, more than 20 million Americans age 12 or older were in recovery from substance use disorders, highlighting the vital need for support and resources. This month, we honor the strength and resilience of those in recovery and the dedication of the professionals who support them.
In observance of National Recovery Month, Fidelis Care visited CASA-Trinity in Livingston County to learn more about its substance use treatment programs. We talked with Clinical Supervisor Van Pham and Peer Recovery Specialist Alyssa Sick about how they help clients on their recovery journeys.
Fidelis Care: Tell us about your role at CASA-Trinity.
Van Pham: CASA-Trinity is a facility that provides outpatient, inpatient, and residential services for people who suffer from mental health and substance use disorders. I am a clinical supervisor at CASA-Trinity and work at the Dansville outpatient clinic.
Alyssa Sick: I first came to CASA-Trinity as a client. I successfully completed my recovery program and I now work for CASA-Trinity helping people with their recovery journey.
Fidelis Care: What is your message in observance of National Recovery Month?
Van Pham: CASA-Trinity’s motto is “Hope Begins Here.” Recovery is not an easy process, so the first step is to just reach out for help.
Alyssa Sick: I want those in recovery or seeking recovery to know that you are worth it. It might seem scary as you first start, and maybe you have a lot of questions, and maybe you’re uncertain. But I do know from my experience that it is possible, that you can connect with people to get the help that you need. It just takes one simple choice. It might seem overwhelming at first, but there are people here who will help you.
Fidelis Care: What advice do you have for family members, loved ones, or friends of those in recovery or in need of services?
Van Pham: If you have a family member who is struggling, we always encourage you to call with them. We offer help for family members who are also struggling loving an addict themselves. We have several counselors and we have several resources that can help you, as well.
Alyssa Sick: I think it’s important for the family members and the friends to have support just as much as the person that’s affected. My advice is to just know it’s very difficult for both the addict and the family or the alcoholic and the family. Don’t lose hope, because even if it seems like it’s completely gone, there’s always a chance.
For help with substance use disorder recovery, contact your primary care provider. If you are a Fidelis Care member, we have resources available for you. Call us at 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) TTY: 711. Use extension 16072 for Behavioral Health Services or extension 16077 to contact HealthierLife (HARP) for qualifying Medicaid Managed Care members.
Additional resources:
Fidelis Care Behavioral Health Resources
Fidelis Care HealthierLife (HARP)