Felicia Roark: A Heartfelt Journey in Addiction Therapy
Just watching that change from a to b is it's beautiful. Because they're so hopeless, they're helpless, they have no self-esteem, it's hard for them to even realize their own potential, and by the time they leave they have so much more confidence, they're happy, they're so much more serious about their recovery and realizing what they've done and how they want to move forward.
Meet Felicia Roark, an addiction therapist at Thomas Health, whose passion for helping others was sparked during a summer break working with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this episode of 'The Association Spotlight Series', host Lake Morehouse dives into Felicia's heartfelt journey through the world of addiction therapy.
Felicia’s dedication deepened after working at Prestera for two years in substance abuse, but it was her personal experience with her father's addiction and eventual death that truly cemented her calling in this field. She shares the highs and lows of her work, from the rewarding moments of seeing patients transform their lives to the frustrating barriers posed by health insurance limitations.
Felicia also emphasizes the importance of continuous education and staying updated with evidence-based practices to provide the best care possible. The pandemic has brought unique challenges, but Thomas Health has adapted by utilizing recovery coaches and maintaining as many in-person services as possible. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into the resilience required in addiction therapy and the crucial role of social support in recovery.