We are providing in person and telehealth counseling services for substance use
We are providing in person and telehealth counseling services for substance use
Sahar Albaugh is Executive Director and Co-Founder of Maryland Wellness & Recovery. Sahar oversees all programing, operations, billing and staffing needs. Sahar believes that all clients who enter our program deserve a chance and the ability to choose their individual pathway to recovery. Sahar brings true kindness, compassion, empathy an
Sahar Albaugh is Executive Director and Co-Founder of Maryland Wellness & Recovery. Sahar oversees all programing, operations, billing and staffing needs. Sahar believes that all clients who enter our program deserve a chance and the ability to choose their individual pathway to recovery. Sahar brings true kindness, compassion, empathy and love to Maryland Wellness.
Sahar is a problem solver by nature, when there are obstacles in the way she sees this as a challenge and will not stop until she finds a solution. Sahar saw that there were gaps in services in our area, specifically for individuals leaving higher levels of treatment, specifically regarding housing needs, stability and support. Sahar understands that having a strong foundation in early recovery includes having a stable place to live, food to eat and access to services for basic needs. Since there were very limited options available in our area, Sahars solution was to build a community housing program that offers a safe, sober and structured environment that incorporates peer support. Our community housing program has grown in the past year from 1 to 2 houses, and we are about to open a 3rd house in the coming months. Sahar is always looking for ways to improve our program and make it better overall.
Being that her passion is helping others in need, Sahar believes it is a gift to be able to help our clients. Sahars favorite part about working at Maryland Wellness is being able to see clients grow and succeed on their journey.
Sahar is a mother of two, a dog mom and loving wife. Sahar values family and is very close with her family. She enjoys spending time with family, hosting family gatherings and celebrating her Persian heritage.
As the administrator and co-founder of Maryland Wellness and Recovery, he has established himself as a pivotal figure in the field of behavioral health, thanks to a career that beautifully merges direct clinical experience with strategic leadership. His journey began with an enriching eight-year tenure as an addictions counselor, where h
As the administrator and co-founder of Maryland Wellness and Recovery, he has established himself as a pivotal figure in the field of behavioral health, thanks to a career that beautifully merges direct clinical experience with strategic leadership. His journey began with an enriching eight-year tenure as an addictions counselor, where he gained invaluable insights into addiction treatment and recovery, insights that later became foundational in his approach to compliance and operations. Expanding his scope, he stepped into roles focusing on behavioral health compliance, regulations, accreditation, licensing, and operations. His expertise didn't just benefit Maryland; he consulted for over 20 programs nationwide, showcasing his ability to tailor and implement best practices in varied settings, always upholding the highest standards of care. A key achievement in his distinguished career is his involvement in accrediting over 30 programs with CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) and The Joint Commission (TJC). This feat demonstrates his deep understanding and ability to meet stringent healthcare quality and safety standards. Beyond his role at Maryland Wellness and Recovery, he is also the owner of a consulting firm specializing in comprehensive audit systems and management consultancy. This venture is a testament to his comprehensive understanding of the industry and his capability to guide organizations through complex regulatory landscapes. His firm provides critical support to organizations striving for operational excellence and compliance in the dynamic field of behavioral health. In leading Maryland Wellness and Recovery, his focus extends to nurturing a team that embodies efficiency, compassion, and compliance. He is committed to staff development, ensuring that his team is not only well-versed in current practices but also prepared for the evolving challenges of behavioral health care. His leadership style promotes a culture of continuous learning and adherence to the highest standards, ensuring that Maryland Wellness and Recovery remains at the forefront of behavioral health services.
Amie has worked in behavioral health since 2005. She has extensive experience as a clinical supervisor and clinical director, working to develop strong behavioral health program curriculums and assisting in managing program operations. She enjoys working with patients who struggle with both substance use disorders and mental health diag
Amie has worked in behavioral health since 2005. She has extensive experience as a clinical supervisor and clinical director, working to develop strong behavioral health program curriculums and assisting in managing program operations. She enjoys working with patients who struggle with both substance use disorders and mental health diagnoses. Amie serves as the Clinical Director for the organization, managing the staff and clinical operations of the program, and works with patients providing individual and couples counseling. Prior to her time with Maryland Wellness and Recovery, Amie served as the Clinical Director and PRP Specialist at Compassionate Wellness Center and Clinical Supervisor and then Clinical Director for Wells House Inc. Amie graduated with her Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Frostburg State University in 2004. In addition, she was an adjunct faculty member at Frostburg State University instructing students in the psychology program while developing her career in substance use disorder treatment and co-occurring disorders. Amie is passionate about helping those with substance use and mental health disorders and is happy to be able to help individuals grow to their full potential.
With a passion for helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives, Tammy is a dedicated substance abuse counselor with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and effective support to those struggling with substance abuse disorders.
Tammy holds a bachelor's in addiction counseling from Indiana Wesleyan Universit
With a passion for helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives, Tammy is a dedicated substance abuse counselor with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and effective support to those struggling with substance abuse disorders.
Tammy holds a bachelor's in addiction counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University and is currently in the master’s program for professional counseling at Ottawa University. Tammy is a Certified Associate Counselor- Alcohol and Drug with a supervision status. With 12 years of experience in the field, Tammy has honed expertise in assessment, treatment planning, individual and group counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.
Tammy is committed to empowering clients to achieve lasting recovery through a person-centered and evidence-based approach. By establishing a trusting and non-judgmental therapeutic alliance, Tammy creates a safe space for clients to explore the underlying issues contributing to their addiction and develop personalized strategies for sustainable sobriety. Tammy is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families
I appreciate the opportunity to speak openly about why I chose to work in this field. When deciding on career fields, behavioral health/SUD was not something that I had ever considered. Although I grew up in a household with a parent with a SUD and eventually a sibling would experience this as well, the culture was not healing but purpo
I appreciate the opportunity to speak openly about why I chose to work in this field. When deciding on career fields, behavioral health/SUD was not something that I had ever considered. Although I grew up in a household with a parent with a SUD and eventually a sibling would experience this as well, the culture was not healing but purposeful ignorance or abstinence. I am child of the DARE/Just Say No generation.
I went to school to receive lab certifications and went on to work in that field. Eventually I decided to return to pursue a degree in nursing but had to leave my senior year. Sadly, my husband at the time was abusing alcohol severely and me as well. I had to leave one night with my kids in tow essentially dropping out of college at the same time.
Once I was living independently, I found a position at an integrated healthcare facility which offered counseling, and MAT for community members seeking help with potential SUDs. I felt encouraged that there is healing after addiction working with the patients there. I felt sadness and anger (not with the patient) when I was thanked for treating the patients like they "are a human being." Eventually I started feeling a bit of calling when I was able to see I had the empathy and experience needed to help people suffering with substance use disorders.
I chose to work for Maryland Wellness and Recovery because of their mission, values, commitment, and their ability to accommodate my transitional schedule after having my daughter, Isabel. I have stayed with MDWAR because their values and commitment to client outcomes closely align with mine and I appreciate the family-oriented work culture.
One of my heroes would be Dr. Jane Elliot for her groundbreaking studies in a time of turmoil and racial injustice.
Christal is certified Alcohol and Drug counselor, and has acquired her Associates of Applied Science in Chemical Dependency & Human Services from the College of Southern Maryland. She is currently enrolled at St. Mary's College of Maryland working towards her Bachelors of Science in clinical psychology with a minor in Sociology. You will
Christal is certified Alcohol and Drug counselor, and has acquired her Associates of Applied Science in Chemical Dependency & Human Services from the College of Southern Maryland. She is currently enrolled at St. Mary's College of Maryland working towards her Bachelors of Science in clinical psychology with a minor in Sociology. You will be seeing her in the AM predominately Mondays & Wednesdays. Please come and join me and while gaining knowledge on tools, skills, and techniques for your sobriety with a little of a spin of fun, creativity in group education, laughter, energetic, and out of this world activities while your completing your recovery here at MDWAR.
I wanted to go into this field because of my own experiences with addiction and mental health. I grew up watching my uncles use drugs, was in treatment for a severe eating disorder and cocaine use when I was 16, and finally embraced recovery in 2017 and it was the best thing I've ever done-and I wouldn't have that if it weren't for my e
I wanted to go into this field because of my own experiences with addiction and mental health. I grew up watching my uncles use drugs, was in treatment for a severe eating disorder and cocaine use when I was 16, and finally embraced recovery in 2017 and it was the best thing I've ever done-and I wouldn't have that if it weren't for my experience in this field. I figured out I was an addict bc I started to feel really uncomfortable telling clients to do something I wasn't willing to do myself; that's why in my groups you'll hear me talk about the gift that guilt is and how it can be used as a motivator to change behavior.
I didn't have a special interest in MDWAR when I started; it was a job opportunity that was offered to me through my networking and connections but after that leadership team left, I stayed because I appreciated actually being able to perform clinically in a way that actually matched up with the program's mission. My passion has always been harm reduction because its the epitome of client centered care. MDWAR allows me to develop harm reduction interventions and provide client centered care in a way that actually matches up w my own clinical philosophies. I appreciate that because I've worked in places where that wasn't the case and I was miserable.
And let's be honest-I have a good schedule. Because I've shown Sahar, Nick and Angela that I can do my job, they've allowed me to make my own schedule which allows me to meet other professional, educational and personal obligations. I appreciate working for a program that trusts me to do my job and respects me as a clinician with my own professional, educational and personal goals rather than just seeing me as their employee.
Hello My name is Toya. My passion is traveling, music, and the arts. I am also passionate about helping others through counseling, mentorship and life coaching. I obtained an Associate degree in Mental Health, Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in counseling. I am currently in the Doctoral program for Traumatology and
Hello My name is Toya. My passion is traveling, music, and the arts. I am also passionate about helping others through counseling, mentorship and life coaching. I obtained an Associate degree in Mental Health, Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in counseling. I am currently in the Doctoral program for Traumatology and community counseling. I am also a certified life coach. I ran my own non-profit organization for several years, working with women who experienced trauma and at risk youth. I have experienced many struggles and hardships of my own that have blessed me with genuine compassion and empathy for others. I am excited about joining the team!
I started working at MDWAR because I wanted to help people. I had been working in the schools for DHHS doing hearing and vision screening, then Covid made its debut. When covid hit I volunteered to work in the testing clinics, rather than staying home and doing nothing on paid administrative leave. Once all the covid craziness had passed
I started working at MDWAR because I wanted to help people. I had been working in the schools for DHHS doing hearing and vision screening, then Covid made its debut. When covid hit I volunteered to work in the testing clinics, rather than staying home and doing nothing on paid administrative leave. Once all the covid craziness had passed I was asked to go work in a school health room. I began to realize that this was not for me, something was missing. I felt like my soul was happier when I was serving my community. That is when I decided to come to MDWAR.
I chose to work in this field not only to start a new career but to open my heart to others and opportunities. I chose MDWAR because of the relationship I had with staff prior to joining the team. I saw how the clients loved the environment and how they were almost like one big family.... now I love it even more and I would never let the clients go without!
I have always had a fascination with this field and a passion to learn more about it. I graduated from UMD with a bachelor's in criminology/ criminal justice and over the years, my interest in substance abuse treatment & recovery has grown substantially. It wasn’t until learning and watching my sister (and brother-in-law) do what they d
I have always had a fascination with this field and a passion to learn more about it. I graduated from UMD with a bachelor's in criminology/ criminal justice and over the years, my interest in substance abuse treatment & recovery has grown substantially. It wasn’t until learning and watching my sister (and brother-in-law) do what they do best ;) that I finally made the jump to switch careers. Although I have only been learning the inner workings of the business for a couple weeks now, I have such a passion to help others in recovery. It truly matters to me. I know how strong the disease of addiction can be and how fast it can take a hold of one's life, so I am motivated now more than ever to make sure our clients have the resources and assistance to continue their path to recovery. Can't wait to see MDWAR continue to grow and do great things!
Erin Marks has been with Maryland Wellness for several years, working part-time as our community outreach
coordinator and a peer, supporting our Community Housing program. Erin created the peer support program
for our houses. Erin also assists with planning community events and making connections for client resources
within the community.
Er
Erin Marks has been with Maryland Wellness for several years, working part-time as our community outreach
coordinator and a peer, supporting our Community Housing program. Erin created the peer support program
for our houses. Erin also assists with planning community events and making connections for client resources
within the community.
Erin is a Certified Addiction Counselor, a Certified Peer, & Registered Peer Supervisor. Erin has a master’s
degree in management from University of Maryland, University College, and a bachelor’s degree in special
education from Townson University. Prior to entering the substance abuse and mental health field, Erin was a
Special Education Teacher for 10 years.
Over the past 6 years, Erin has worked in many different roles within the substance abuse & mental health
field. Prior to their closing, she worked at Serenity Acres Inpatient Treatment center both as an outreach
specialist and discharge coordinator. Erin worked at Pathways to Housing in Montgomery County for 5 years
as both a peer and addictions counselor. At Pathways Erin assisted Montgomery County’s chronically homeless
individuals who struggle with substance abuse and mental health.
Erin’s favorite thing about being a peer is seeing the light come back in a client’s eyes and then watching them
succeed on their journey to recovery. Erin believes there is no greater feeling than knowing she played a role in
helping someone find their way.
In her personal time, Erin enjoys traveling, maintaining her rock garden, art/graphic design projects,
decorating/designing homes, and party planning.
David Alvarado Diaz is a peer for our community housing program. He has worked at Maryland Wellness for 2
years. He assists our community housing clients and house managers in leading our housing program. David
has been known to pop in at the houses to keep clients on their toes. David assists in connecting clients to
community resources to
David Alvarado Diaz is a peer for our community housing program. He has worked at Maryland Wellness for 2
years. He assists our community housing clients and house managers in leading our housing program. David
has been known to pop in at the houses to keep clients on their toes. David assists in connecting clients to
community resources to set them up for success. David also helps in maintaining our houses to keep them in
good shape.
David works full time as a Case Manager for Pathways to housing in Montgomery County assisting homeless
individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health. David speaks fluent Spanish and is strong in
connecting to individuals who speak Spanish, gaining their trust and building relationships to assist in
connecting them to services. David thrives at building community connections and obtaining resources for his
clients.
In his spare time David enjoys working on projects around the house, watching Tik Tok videos, researching on
the internet, and watching movies.
Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to be joining the Maryland Wellness and Recovery team as a Peer Recovery Coach. My journey to recovery has been a powerful and transformative experience, and I'm deeply passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to wellness. With empathy, understanding, and a commitment to supporting your recove
Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to be joining the Maryland Wellness and Recovery team as a Peer Recovery Coach. My journey to recovery has been a powerful and transformative experience, and I'm deeply passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to wellness. With empathy, understanding, and a commitment to supporting your recovery, I look forward to being a steadfast ally in your journey to a healthier, happier life. Together, we can overcome the challenges ahead and build a brighter future. Let's embark on this recovery journey as a team!
Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to be joining the Maryland Wellness and Recovery team as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist .
I have three years of lived experience being homeless in Montgomery County. I have experienced the barriers and false promises in regaining self-sufficiency while living in the Montgomery County Shelters.
· Organi
Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to be joining the Maryland Wellness and Recovery team as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist .
I have three years of lived experience being homeless in Montgomery County. I have experienced the barriers and false promises in regaining self-sufficiency while living in the Montgomery County Shelters.
· Organizer of the Coalition 180 advocated for the residents of the Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless Men’s shelter and development of the Homeless Persons Criminal Diversion Program.
· My process began while in the shelter with the Homeless Persons Criminal Diversion Program (HPCDP), developed in collaboration with the Montgomery County’s State’s Attorney’s Office; it is a specialized post-arrest diversion program for individuals experiencing homelessness who have been accused of specific nonviolent misdemeanors or who currently have outstanding warrants for misdemeanors and transit or traffic offenses.
As my way of giving back, I became an advocate for the Homeless Population as a
· Appointed to Commissioner of Interagency Commission on Homelessness by Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich 2022-2024
· Co-Chairperson of the Interagency Commission on Homelessness Peoples Committee
· Member of the Montgomery County ICH Continuum of Care Coordinated Entry Subcommittee
· Member ICH Governance Committee
· Member of ICH Racial Equality Committee
· Member of the Homeless Resource Day Planning Community
· Alumni of ICH Lead for Impact
https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/homelessness/leadforimpact.html
· Alumni CAI [Community Action Institute]
· Member of the Metro Washington Council of Governments Racial Equity Action Committee member.
Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) has started working with C4 Innovations to conduct a Racial Equity systems analysis to inform a region-wide homeless service system action plan. In addition, to pinpoint racial disparities with CoCs in the DMV.
· Passed The Maryland Addiction & Behavioral-Health Professionals Certification Board (MABPCB) Peer Support Specialist
· Employed as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with Pathways to Housing DC Montgomery County Programs
· Graduate Montgomery County Community Action Institute
· Featured In AARP Magazine December 2022 issue,” Surviving Homelessness in the US.”
· Founder of the MCSupportNetwork
Florence Odubayo, FNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Florence provides compassionate care for clients suffering with addiction issues and primary care patients in both Washington DC and Maryland. Florence also has experience with addiction medicine, family medicine
Florence Odubayo, FNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Florence provides compassionate care for clients suffering with addiction issues and primary care patients in both Washington DC and Maryland. Florence also has experience with addiction medicine, family medicine, and women’s health services. Florence’s passion for healthcare extends to the classroom as a clinical instructor for aspiring nurses and nurse practitioners. Mrs. Odubayo has lived in Montgomery County, MD for over 20 years and takes great pride in working at a program meant to serve the community she loves. Florence believes that every patient/client is very important and should be treated individually as such. Therefore, she is committed to providing 100% patient satisfaction to each patient.
Copyright © 2024 Maryland Wellness and Recovery - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.