We are thrilled to introduce some of our newest team members who have chosen to pursue a deeply meaningful journey within the realm of recovery. As we welcome them to Social Model Recovery Systems, we find ourselves inspired by their passion, dedication, and commitment to making a difference in our community.
Simon Perkins, RADT
Primary Aide, Bimini
I chose this field because I wanted to give back to others. The Bible says that faith without works is dead. What would I profit if I did not help someone along the way to battle their demons and share my experiences with them in my ongoing battle with my flesh? There was a time when we were more supportive of one another. In these days and times, we are in desperate need of more programs like ours and people who truly care about making a difference. This job or rather my reaching out to others will better help me understand who I am now as a person and the weakness I still have to address and work on, which will help me help others.
LaTonia Colas, B.S., RADT
Primary Counselor, Royal Palms
Growing up in group and foster homes was tough. I firsthand experienced mental health issues, homelessness, and addiction. When I was 14 years old, I was adopted and given a new chance at life. My mother has powerfully shaped my perception of the world by showing me love, kindness, and empathy toward others who were suffering and less fortunate than me. With that encouragement and love, I knew I wanted to support, advocate, and assist with helping others build their lives the way I was assisted. I am compassionate about others and their wellbeing which drove me to this field. Prior to beginning my journey with Social Model Recovery Systems, I decided to pursue a career in psychology and graduated with my Bachelor of Science.
Being a part of Social Model Recovery Systems gives me the opportunity to connect and fully understand addiction and how to support our community in the best way possible. I also believe that Social Model Recovery Systems can help me reach my goals, including someday becoming a Program Director.
Brittany Bell-Anderson, RADT
Primary Counselor, River Community Covina and Wellness
I chose to work in this field because of my own experiences with substance misuse and mental health disorders. I am currently 3.5 years sober, and I don’t know where I would be if I didn’t have a counselor who guided me in the way that they did. With the help of that counselor, I was able to find my voice and appreciate myself for who I am without apologizing. Knowing what it felt like to struggle with my mental health before/during my active addiction and growing up surrounded by others who have struggled with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychosis, and/or addiction has motivated me to help others through their healing journey just as I have. Everyone is human, everyone has their own life story, and everyone deserves support and compassion to continue their path in life. There is always room for growth and there’s always going to be something to learn while working in this field. I truly believe Social Model Recovery Systems will provide me with the opportunities to expand my knowledge, education, and experience warranted for this field, all while helping me reach the goal of being able to help others heal in the same way I have.
Jesse Gama, B.S., RADT
Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – FSP
As cliché as it sounds, I chose to work in this field because I have the desire to help others and provide opportunities to give individuals life-changing support. I believe I am able to offer compassion, inspire hope, and teach the skills needed to overcome challenges. It gives me great satisfaction to be a part of someone’s journey of change and have a significant impact on their life. Also, I am thinking of furthering my education and obtaining my master’s in counseling.
Social Model Recovery Systems can assist me in enhancing my growth within the company and be successful in this field. I enjoy working with other professionals with the same common goal and making a positive change in someone’s life.
Exon Garcia, RADT
Primary Aide, Royal Palms
I chose this career because it is one in which I feel from which I will get the most job satisfaction. I am very passionate about helping others and I believe it is a career where there are several opportunities to learn new skills and strengthen existing ones. I have heard great things about Social Model Recovery Systems and hope to contribute to creating environments promoting recovery, personal responsibility, and mutual self-help.
Arthur Villalba, RADT
Primary Aide, Royal Palms
The main reason why I chose this field of work is due to a great friend of mine, Y.V. She deeply inspired me to continue my educational and life goals by seeing all her personal growth and the struggles she has gone through. Despite all obstacles, nothing stopped her from continuing and pushing forward in life. I am very thankful to have this amazing, kindhearted individual in my life, and because of her, one of my life goals is to work in the field of helping or assisting those who are in need, which I feel a deep passion for. She guided me in the right direction and has led me to work for Social Model Recovery Systems.
I am very grateful to be able to work in this field of work. I strongly believe that Social Model Recovery Systems will help me reach one of the other goals that I have set – to become a drug and alcohol counselor. I know there is a long road ahead of me. However, I am willing to continue and do my best to accomplish my future goals.
We would also like to welcome Lawrence Valencia, RADT (Primary Aide, Bimini) to Social Model Recovery Systems!
As we continue to grow and evolve as an organization, we are strengthened by the passion and drive of these remarkable individuals. Together, we are united in our mission to prevent and reduce alcohol, other drugs, and mental health-related problems through positive social change.
