My name is Kristen Henderson, and I am an RCO Peer Specialist. I am grateful for my recovery from my addiction and mental health. On June 2nd, 2020, I entered treatment for the 7th and last time. While in treatment, I figured out my purpose in life, to help others with the struggles I have gone through.

Since then, I have worked with addicts and alcoholics both in my professional and personal life. In my own recovery journey, I have had struggles, defeats, loss, but I have also had so many rewards. Recovery is not linear, nor will it ever be. The waves in my life today are worth it.

My goal is to continue ending the stigma surrounding individuals experiencing substance abuse, mental illness, and homelessness. These individuals and the population I work with are deserving of everything life has to offer. Love, empathy, support, and encouragement are the ways I show up for anyone who I meet.

My recovery has given me my family, the trust of others, friends for a lifetime, a healthy home, a clear mind, and even more than I cannot put into words. I will always strive to give others the chances I gave myself. I’ve had people show up for me in moments I could not show up for myself and I vow to be that person to others.

“Hell was the journey but it brought me to Heaven.” – Taylor Swift