Royal Palms is proud to welcome two remarkable individuals who have recently achieved certification in their respective fields, contributing to the ongoing success of our mission to support individuals on their journey to recovery.
Meet Regina Owens-Durant, a newly Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and James Freeland, a new Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC). Their inspiring stories reflect not only personal triumphs but also a commitment to empowering others through compassion and dedication.
Regina Owens-Durant: A Woman of Faith and Resilience
Regina Owens-Durant’s journey into the field of addiction counseling was ignited by her own struggle with addiction. Fueled by a desire to help others navigate the path to recovery, Regina became a beacon of hope, proving that with faith and determination, one can overcome life’s challenges.
As a Woman of God, Regina draws strength from the belief that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This conviction guided her through the challenges of pursuing education later in life, where she stood as the oldest student in her class. Undeterred, she excelled, achieving straight A’s and demonstrating that resilience knows no age.
Regina’s dedication to her craft extends beyond academic achievements. Working in the field of recovery, she has cultivated an open mind and a compassionate heart, offering support to those striving to achieve their goals. Regina’s journey led her to Social Model Recovery Systems, where she joined almost five years ago. She earned her Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (CADCI) certification and is presently working towards becoming a CADCII, showcasing her commitment to continuous self-improvement for the benefit of those she serves.
Regina expresses her sincere appreciation to Raymond Monk for providing her with the opportunity and to her Director Vanessa Ramos for believing in her abilities and guiding her along the way.
James Freeland: From Case Aide to Admissions Counselor
James Freeland’s story is one of growth and determination within the Social Model Recovery Systems family. Joining SMRS in March 2021 as a case aide at Rena B, James transitioned to Royal Palms in March 2022, driven by a desire for personal and professional growth within the organization.
Throughout his journey, James demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others. His progression within the company showcases the myriad opportunities for advancement and development available to dedicated individuals. From a case aide, James climbed the ranks to become a Case Manager, Primary Counselor, and currently serves as an Admissions Counselor.
Having faced personal struggles with addiction, James brings a unique perspective to his role. He understands the challenges that residents face and endeavors to provide them with a sense of hope for their future. For James, being the first person residents meet is a fulfilling responsibility, as it allows him to contribute to the foundation of their journey towards a brighter and addiction-free future.
James’ commitment to the field is rooted in his belief that recovery is possible, and he is dedicated to supporting individuals in building a solid foundation for a better tomorrow.
Regina’s and James’ stories remind us that with faith, resilience, and a commitment to growth, individuals can overcome addiction and become catalysts for positive change in the lives of others. SMRS congratulates Regina and James on their certifications and looks forward to witnessing the continued impact of their work within the Royal Palms community.
