LIFT Advocacy Services

As a living testament to the power of recovery, I bring over seven years of personal experience and six years of professional expertise to the field of addiction and mental health support. My journey fuels my passion for empowering individuals to bridge the gap to success and find hope on their unique path to recovery. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive, regardless of where they’ve been or what they’ve faced.

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I am a certified CAPRC II-MH-FS (Certified Addiction Peer Recovery Coach II – Mental Health – Forensic Support) and have completed specialized training through Ivy Tech Community College, earning certificates in both Mental Health Support and Addiction Studies. This combination of education and real-life experience allows me to approach recovery work with deep empathy, understanding, and practical knowledge.

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Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working directly with individuals and families affected by substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. Whether facilitating one-on-one peer recovery coaching, leading support groups, or connecting people with essential resources, I am committed to meeting individuals exactly where they are, without judgment, and walking alongside them as they navigate the road to recovery.

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I understand firsthand that the journey is rarely easy, but I also know the incredible transformations that are possible when the right support, tools, and encouragement are in place. My goal is to be a steady, compassionate presence, a beacon of light, demonstrating that change is not only possible but within reach. Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process, and I am dedicated to helping each person I work with find the path that works best for them.

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Through my work, I strive to inspire hope, foster resilience, and remind others that no matter how dark things may seem, a brighter future is always possible.

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Position funded by the State Opioid Response (SOR)/Mobile Integrated Response System (MIRS) Grants.

As someone who has lived through the depths of addiction, I know what it feels like to lose everything, including the people who matter most. I spent over 17 years battling addiction, and the cost was devastating. But today, I stand as living proof that recovery is possible. I have been on my recovery journey for over seven years, and in August 2025, I will proudly celebrate six years free from IV drug use and methamphetamines, a milestone I once never believed I’d reach.

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I am a Certified Addiction Peer Recovery Coach (CAPRC I), and my passion lies in using my lived experience to walk alongside others on their own paths to healing. One of the greatest gifts of recovery has been the ability to turn my mess into a message, a message of hope, strength, and resilience. In my role as a peer recovery coach, I meet people exactly where they are, offering compassion, understanding, and the reassurance that no one is too far gone to find their way back.

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My heart is especially called to help women, particularly mothers who are fighting to rebuild their lives and reconnect with their children. I understand that specific kind of pain, the weight of guilt, the fear of not being able to repair the damage, the loss of identity as a mother. My mission is to be the support I once needed but didn’t have. I want every woman to know that it is never too late for a second chance, never too late to fight for your family, and never too late to heal. Watching women regain their strength, confidence, and sense of purpose, especially as mothers, is truly what fuels me every single day.​

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It is truly an honor to stand beside those still in the fight and to be living proof that even in the darkest moments, hope is never lost.

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Position funded by the State Opioid Response (SOR)/Mobile Integrated Response System (MIRS) Grants.

As someone who has walked the path of recovery, I know firsthand what it feels like to be lost in the darkness, unsure if there’s a way out. Today, with over seven and a half years in recovery, my life’s mission is to help others find the hope and strength they may not yet see in themselves. I am passionate about guiding individuals out of the dark and into the light, because I know recovery is possible. I’ve lived it.

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Through my work, I strive to create a safe, supportive, and empowering space where clients can rebuild their confidence, discover their self-worth, and learn the tools necessary to navigate their own journey. I truly believe that with the right support system, encouragement, and resources, anyone can overcome even the toughest challenges and build a life they are proud of.

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I have a deep understanding of the emotional toll addiction and mental health struggles can take, not just on the individual, but on their families as well. That’s why my approach is rooted in empathy, lived experience, and a genuine desire to walk alongside those who are ready to take that first step toward healing.

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Outside of my professional role, I am a proud wife and mama. My family is the greatest blessing in my life and my constant reminder of how far I’ve come. We love spending quality time together, staying active, and embracing the simple joys of life. Whether we’re working in our large garden, exploring the outdoors, or just soaking up the sunshine, nature keeps us grounded and connected.

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Every day, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experience, strength, and hope with others, because no one should ever have to walk this journey alone.

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Position funded by the State Opioid Response (SOR)/Mobile Integrated Response System (MIRS) Grants.

Laura grew up in Bicknell, Indiana, and has always been deeply committed to making a positive impact in her community.

 

She began her academic journey by earning an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Vincennes University, where she developed a strong foundation in understanding developmental and educational needs.

 

Motivated to expand her career opportunities, Laura went on to earn a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Western Governors University, combining her passion for service with the skills needed to lead and manage projects effectively.

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Over the course of 16 years at Good Samaritan Hospital, Laura held various positions, where she grew her expertise in project development, team leadership, and program management. Throughout her career, she discovered her passion for supporting individuals in recovery, particularly within the peer recovery workforce. This interest led her to focus on building and elevating recovery services that empower individuals to reclaim and improve their lives.

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In 2024, Laura joined CFS, Corp. with a clear mission: to expand and enhance peer recovery services across Knox County. She is dedicated to fostering a supportive, compassionate environment for those in recovery and believes that peer-led services play a vital role in long-term success and healing. Laura is passionate about working alongside the recovery community to increase access to resources, support networks, and opportunities for growth and recovery.

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Her unique combination of healthcare experience, business acumen, and commitment to the recovery community makes her an invaluable addition to the CFS team. Laura is excited to continue working toward creating positive, lasting change for individuals and their families.