Service Array:
Individual Skill Development and Enhancement
Wellness Management 
I grew up in the Midwest. When I think back to being young in Minnesota, I remember not a great childhood. I was often depressed and sad coupled with growing up in an alcoholic household and early sexual abuse I carried that trauma with me throughout elementary school. There were times that I enjoyed it there, particularly with school and my friends.
When I was in 4th grade we moved to Wisconsin, that’s when things deteriorated further. I struggled to make friends, do well in class and I was bullied. My home life was a mess, living in a dark alcoholic house my depression worsened. Experiencing verbal and psychological abuse I went through those years not knowing what or who I am or could be.
I grew close with few friends in my life, and I enjoyed acting and competitive speaking when I was in high school. I also discovered drinking, for me when I drank, I was ok with being who I was. The feeling of belonging and being the drunk screwball life of the party came out in me.
With no confidence, no goals and weak interest in academics I struggled in college after I graduated high school. My addiction to alcohol increased and I found people I considered my true friends. Still lost in the turmoil of my mental health, I at least felt like the people I surrounded myself with genuinely cared and there was this sense of safety around them-free from bullying-free from the alcoholic home I grew up in.
However, I was powerless to stop. It wasn’t long until I was married, father and a daily drinking. Dark sadness enveloped my life, pills alone couldn’t help. Surrender is what I needed to happen in my life. It wasn’t until my life completely collapsed that I started to seek the help I needed.
I started to be honest with myself and others, I went to my therapist and committed to discussing the trauma that happened. For me recovery was also big, I joined AA, and I am grateful to say I never looked back and have maintained sober living since. With a new sense of self, I became passionate for fitness and the outdoors. Whether its hiking or kayaking or snowshoeing, etc.
For many years I have worked in construction and maintenance repair, so I enjoy creating and learning new things. Setting goals is pivotal to me, even if it seems too challenging or a long shot I strive to achieve it.
I enjoy reading, going to shows, music and going to the gym. Bringing a holistic approach to mental wellness and addiction recovery has changed me; not to a new person but I believe to the person I was always meant to be.