Katie is a woman in active, sustained recovery. Since April 2022, She has embraced a recovery-focused lifestyle that has transformed her life and allowed her to help others do the same. Her introduction to alcohol and drugs came at an early age, and she quickly began using them to cope with the challenges of her upbringing. In her teens and young adulthood, substance use became a normalized part of her life. However, this path led to trauma, domestic violence, and mental health struggles. The loss of her mother in 2010 accelerated her descent into addiction. By 2014, Katie knew she needed help, but despite numerous treatment attempts, she struggled on and off for eight years.

In 2021, after another inpatient treatment, Katie made a pivotal decision: instead of returning to the same broken patterns, she moved into a recovery home. This environment introduced her to accountability, community support, and a new way of living. Most importantly, she connected with Peer 180, a recovery community that helped her discover what recovery meant to her. Through their programs and the support of like-minded individuals, she gained self-worth, stability, and a passion for giving back.

Recovery has become Katie’s lifestyle, and she recognizes that it truly begins when treatment ends. Her journey has been shaped by various pathways, including Alcoholics Anonymous, All Recovery, and holistic practices centered on wellness, purpose, and gratitude. These practices, combined with the support of Peer 180, have allowed her to thrive in recovery and help others do the same.

Through Peer 180, she transitioned from a participant to a dedicated volunteer and eventually to a professional role. She began by completing Useful Public Service hours and volunteering as a receptionist, life skills coordinator, and part of the Creating in Recovery team. In 2023, she received a scholarship to attend the Recovery Coach Academy, where she gained the tools to coach others effectively. Today, as a Young Adult Recovery Coach at Peer 180, Katie is honored to walk alongside others on their recovery journeys, offering empathy, support, and hope.