I completed my B.A. in Cognitive Science at the University of Toronto. I was 42 years old and still using.  Back then I was a high-functioning alcoholic and poly-substance user, juggling school and a job (I was employed in casinos and gamblng environments for over 30 years). My sobriety date is September 9, 2019, just before turning 45. I continue the path of recovery through learning and then leading- by example. Recovery didn’t just change me — it taught me resilience and mental toughness. Recovery hasn't made life easier- It motivates me to pursue meaningful experiences- like this one: participating in peoples pursuit of change. 

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Afterwards, I earned an Addictions & Mental Health Certificate from Durham College, doing my placement at the Canadian Mental Health Association. Then began employment as an addictions counsellor in a private, residential treatment centre where I supported clients as a primary addictions counsellor. facilitating group therapy, creating psycho-educational clinical's, facilitating mindfulness programs and providing additional family support. Gaining knowledge in a private treatment centre has been of great value. Most people who arrive there are at rock bottom. I have seen some people transform themselves in the 30-45 days that they were there. Participating in that process is special. However, it is not an environment that everyone can do well in. Please read my blog for more details.​

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Allow me a moment to share my mission here. I am transitioning careers from dealing and overseeing gambling establishments to an independent addiction recovery service.  Stepping away from a treatment facility and providing services independently  through coaching and counselling is a 'gamble'. The market for providing addiction services is lucrative. The government and private treatment centres profit significantly from treating addictions. Have they convinced you yet, that they really do care? (Please see more on this in my blog on this)  Yes, my mission is to 'make a living' in addiction recovery by helping others not for capital profit gains. When you work with someone intimately and independently there is a difference. A relatable, genuine, compassionate difference.