Our Team

Rich is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Kentucky and provides individual, couples, and family counseling. After completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Eastern Kentucky University, and he continued his education at Asbury to obtain a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. Rich has a diverse history working with individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders. He is an Alcohol and Drug Counselor, with experience working with inpatient, residential, and outpatient populations. Rich has worked with adults and adolescents living with substance use/dual diagnosis disorders.

Rich Wheeler, MA, LPCC, TCADC, NCC has training and experience assisting individuals addressing their needs such as, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use disorder, relationship and family issues, codependency, and grief counseling. He uses evidenced-based practices and treatment modalities which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Counseling, and Family Systems.

Rich works to empower his clients to overcome the adversity and challenges of their lives. He joins his clients in their struggles to help them achieve peace and serenity.

Jennie Cannon, LCSW comes to Optimal Living Services from New Vista where she spent two and a half years as an Outpatient Therapist. In this role, Jenny specialized in clients with Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders. Additionally, she worked with clients on Probation/Parole, Drug Court, and DCBS as well as those self-referred. After 27+years, Jennie retired from the Fayette County Public Schools where she served as a School Social Worker and a Child Guidance Specialist. She worked diligently with adolescents and their families who were identified as needing extra educational and emotional support. Moreover, Jennie has 17 years of private practice experience where she facilitated State mandated classes for clients with DUI offenses to obtain their driver’s license. Jennie uses a combination of clinical interventions including DBT, CBT and EMDR to assist her clients in their recovery. Jennie resides in Lexington, KY. She has a son and one adorable granddaughter who live in Miami, FL. Aside from her career, Jennie enjoys reading, spending time with friends and cruising the open seas. Please welcome Jennie Cannon, LCSW, T-CADC to our family of Clinicians.

I enjoy helping my clients move towards their goals by lessening their distress and discomfort. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment in order to safely explore issues that may be preventing them from living the life they desire. I have experience working with inpatient, residential, and outpatient populations. I have worked with adults and adolescents living with substance use/dual diagnosis disorders.  

I have been in the mental health profession since 2008. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Kentucky University, am a Licensed Processional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor, as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor. I integrate evidenced-based treatment modalities for each client, dependent upon the concern and need. I most often utilize Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused therapies. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

My passion is to empower my clients to take control of their lives and lessen their emotional pain. I enjoy teaching mindfulness and incorporating a holistic approach towards living a healthy lifestyle. It is most important for me to assist my clients in achieving their goals by understanding their perspective and providing individualized treatment for every client. Life often can become unmanageable with anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, trauma, stress, etc. In what ways can I help you improve upon your life?

Hello! My name is Melissa Young-Flynn, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, SANE P/A. I obtained my certification and licensure for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in 2020. I have more than 23 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings which has been instrumental in developing my passion to help people heal from “life”. I utilize a patient-centered, holistic approach to every person I have the privilege of caring for. I believe that medication is an important part of healing for many patients; however, I also believe that counseling/therapy is vital for getting to the root of problems that cause distress. I look forward to helping every patient/client to get their lives back and increase their happiness, self-worth, and hopefulness.

My name is Cristin Cheatham and I am a Certified Adult Peer Support Specialist. My services as a Peer Specialist and mentor are informed by my recovery from childhood trauma, a drug addicted parent, multiple adult incarcerations, and from my battles with addiction. I have found that I am strongest in my recovery when I am living in service to others. I am so blessed and honored to be in a position to share my personal growths, experiences and offer hope and inspiration to other addicts to overcome this disease. It is my belief God set me on this journey for this purpose.

I'm 42 yrs. old. A mother of three, two boys and one girl. I'm laid back and easy going. I love God, my family, friends, and living life to its fullest. I believe that anyone can and deserves a second chance.

A dedicated Administrator for Optimal Living Services. A licensed Peer Support Specialist as of 2023. I am a very dedicated person and willing to help others anyway I can. I am a mother to two beautiful children. Born and raised in Kentucky.

My name is Leon E. Bailey III. I am currently employed as a Utilization Review Specialist at Optimal Living Services. I am deeply committed to contributing to the well-being of others, drawing inspiration from the invaluable gift of life that I have been blessed with.

Choosing recovery over the path of addiction has been the most transformative decision I have made in my life. At Optimal Living Services, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to make a positive impact in various capacities, guided by the divine will. 

“Look within, for within is the wellspring of virtue, which will not cease flowing, if you cease not from digging.” - Marcus Aurelius

Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate in Kentucky and provides individual, couples, and family counseling.

Currently a doctoral student at the University of Kentucky in the Department of Education and the Center for Research, her research focuses on a cross-cultural examination of mood disorders concerning the prevalence of early-detection and treatment efficacy of counseling. Jennifer has a specific focus on understudied populations, such as adolescents with disabilities.

"I believe that when a counselor recognizes the more significant contextual issues which affect the client's well-being, advocacy in combination with behavioral therapy can be an appropriate intervention for the client.

Each experience thus far has taught me the importance of real communication in higher education. I am intrigued by the individuals I have encountered; I marvel at unique stories, and I appreciate how each person is validated and empowered in exchange for sharing his/her history.

Our interactions sit at the heart of humanistic sensibilities to education; I am determined to become an educator, where I can help to relay stories that otherwise might remain untold."

I graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2020.  I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. During my Practicum, I worked inpatient at a mental health hospital with youth and adolescent populations experiencing a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management concerns, and substance abuse. During my Internship, I worked outpatient with the adolescent Partial Hospitalization group at the same mental health facility. I was also able to gain experience working with individual clients via telehealth. I’ve had office experience working as a case manager for Outpatient Adult Psychiatric clients as well as Adult Outpatient Chemical Dependency clients, including intake assessments, discharges, safety plan formulation, and aftercare scheduling.

My goal as a therapist working with both groups and individuals is to build a trusting alliance with the clients to be able to work together and address their unique needs and goals surrounding their mental health. I believe in empowering my clients and assisting them in seeing their mental health struggles as opportunities to grow as individuals. By offering a safe and comfortable environment for clients to express who they are and what they would like to focus on regarding their mental health, I feel confident in being able to build a therapeutic alliance. And remember, you are never alone.

Holly Osborn is a LMFT. Holly earned her Bachelor’s degree majoring in Child and Family Studies at Eastern Kentucky University and her Master’s degree majoring in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy at East Tennessee State University.

In addition to her degrees, Holly has accumulated various certifications, including TF-CBT, PREP Couples (Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program), PATH (Parents as Tender Healers),  SAFE (Structured Analysis Family Evaluation & Home Study) home evaluator, Healthy Marriage Healthy Family, Parenting the Delinquent Youth, and  On Campus Talking About Alcohol  (now Prime for Life), and Technology Assisted Services (Telehealth).

Holly’s professional experience includes In-Home Counselor for at-risk children and adolescents, Licenser/Trainer/Therapist of foster parents and youth, Drug & Alcohol Educator and Counselor to student population at ETSU, Outpatient Therapist at a private agency, Outpatient Therapist of a Partial Hospitalization DBT Program working with adolescents,  Preschool Director, Trainer and Facilitator of child development and personal growth groups, workshops, and trainings for clients of all ages.

Holly has worked extensively with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, families, and other individuals, who  struggle with the following: trauma, at-risk behaviors, depression, anxiety, grief, coupling, marriage/divorce, women’s issues, life transitions, healing after the Pandemic, parenting and families, anger, and self-esteem.

With the use of Narrative, Family Systems, Solution-Focused, and DBT therapies, Holly approaches her clients with an open mind and the perspective of, “Right now, what does the client need to start feeling better”. In order to move forward, sometimes a client must explore past experiences. Holly encourages self-empowerment by assisting  clients in gaining enlightenment through processing those experiences, taking healthy parts from them, and then assisting clients in filing them in a healthier space. Holly believes that each client is the gatekeeper of their well-being and through mindfulness, self-exploration, and skill building, a client is more able to move forward and create inner balance and stability.

"Hello! I’m Delaney Price, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate (LPCA) in the state of Kentucky and working towards full licensure. While I have experience working in a dual-diagnosis treatment center for those struggling with substance abuse, I also have experience working with clients living with the effects of trauma, OCD, mood disorders like anxiety and depression, self-harm, and psychosis. In the counseling office I am supportive, non-judgemental and empathetic while maintaining a direct and solution-oriented approach to help you achieve your goals.

I received my bachelors degree in Human Services and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College, and my masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Asbury Theological Seminary. The interventions I use as a therapist are tailored to the clients I see, in effort to aid my clients in reaching their individual goals and needs. From a trauma-informed perspective, I use various modalities to meet my client’s needs including; DBT, REBT, CBT, ACT, solutions-focused, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome all gender identities, sexualities, and presentations into my office.

Through my experiences of being on the client side of the desk, I’ve developed a passion for facing the stigma of mental illness head on, so please feel free to come to therapy however you are. The stigma of mental illness as shameful or a reflection of failure is entirely false. Helping people has always been a passion of mine, and it would be an honor to join you in this part of your life journey as your counselor."

Kimberly is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol Drug Counselor in Kentucky and provides Intensive Outpatient services and individual therapy.

Kimberly received a Masters degree in Psychology from Eastern Kentucky University and completed 2 years as a therapist in the medication-assisted treatment setting. She specializes in Substance Use Disorder, Co-Occurring Disorders and has experience working with DCBS, drug court, and probation/parole. Kimberly utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches including CBT and motivational interviewing to help clients process and heal from mental illness. She provides empathy and compassion to all clients as they work through their recovery journey.

“Addiction does not stand on its own and often is a symptom of an underlying problem that has not been addressed. My background in neuropsychology, applied behavioral analysis and human development gives me a deeper understanding of the progression of addiction over the life span. I am honored to have the privilege and the opportunity to work with people who are going through one of the hardest human experiences known to man”.

My name is Maya Jundi, I am a Certified Social Worker. I graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2022 with a Master of Social Work and Clinical Social Work certificate.

Do you need support to achieve your goals and navigate daily life stressors? Have you been considering that it may be time to talk with someone to achieve the desired results you’ve been wanting? I am here to provide you with a safe, judgement-free environment to grow and improve. I utilize a humanistic/person-centered approach and strive to understand intersecting identities. I have a gentle and warm approach, while also aiming to challenge you in a healthy manner to allow for self-reflection and growth. I have worked with various clients and enjoy working with clients struggling with addiction, depression/anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, codependency, and relationship concerns. I most often utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, as well as Solution-Focused Therapies, Person-Centered Therapy, and DBT Skills. My goal is to provide clients with individualized treatment to accomplish their goals and develop skills needed to gain confidence and improve their lives.

I am a Certified Social Worker practicing mental health and substance use therapy in Lexington, Kentucky. I aim to support and encourage individuals in obtaining their goals and improving their overall quality of life. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and varying backgrounds and am LGBTQ+ affirming. I have experience in a variety of settings including community mental health, addiction treatment and more on an individual and group level.

My office is a safe space for everyone to be their authentic self without judgement. I offer an open mind, and support, through life's challenges. I structure therapeutic sessions on a person-centered basis and pull from treatment modalities such as: CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and more.

Deciding on whether or not to begin a therapeutic journey can be difficult. Life can be challenging but one does not have to face those obstacles alone. When you are ready, I will be there to support you through those challenges. I look forward to seeing what difficulties we can overcome together!

I strive to be a calming presence that will meet you where you are without judgement or criticism, to help you realize and achieve your goals. I utilize the therapeutic modalities of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing with my clients to get to the root of their issues and to help them build skills to cope with life’s difficulties. I currently see adult clients for individual counseling and lead intensive outpatient group therapy for individuals recovering from substance dependance. Let me know how I can help you in your healing journey.

Hello! My name is Kevin Wells and I am a Certified Social Worker. I graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2023 with a Master of Social Work and Clinical Social Work certificate.

I strive to help individuals achieve their goals and improve their quality of life through several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Based Brief Therapy, and DBT skills. I aim to meet clients where they are and tailor their therapy with self-determined and realistic goals. I apply a non-judgmental and inclusive approach for adult clients through individual counseling and currently lead group intensive outpatient therapy for individuals recovering from substance dependance.

Life can be challenging and full of hardships but you do not have to face them alone. I hope to help people cope with hardships and embrace life’s challenges with strength and confidence.

Hello, my name is Titus Covington. I’m a Certified Social Worker and I’m currently working on obtaining my full LCSW license. I graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Then, I graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2021 with a Master’s degree in Social Work. I have previous experience working as a Severe Mental Illness (SMI) Case Manager, Mental Health Therapist, and as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor.

My love for the social work field started when I was around the age of 12 years old. I use to volunteer at my mother’s job over the summers working with adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. My mother has been in the social work field for around 27 years now. This is where I believe my passion developed for the work I currently do now.

When it comes to my counseling style, I take a person-centered approach. I believe that all of my clients are capable of overcoming tough challenges or barriers, coping with their anxiety (or depression), and healing from their past trauma experiences. During my sessions, I like to use Motivational Interviewing methods, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, and Solution-focused therapy techniques. I try to accommodate my clients as best as I can. I want my clients to leave my sessions with increased self-awareness and self-confidence. Also, I really want to break the stigma around receiving therapy and counseling services for one’s mental health concerns. I want to help empower, encourage, and teach my clients the skills they will need to help improve their quality of lives.

As a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience in mental health and substance use, I am passionate about guiding individuals through their journeys toward healing and balance. My approach is rooted in the belief expressed by Ehime Ora: “Your body is not a coffin for pain to be buried in. Put it somewhere else.” This philosophy underscores my belief in the transformative power of exploring life, relationships, and experiences with an achievable goal of finding relief.  I am committed to helping people transform their pain into pathways for growth.

I specialize in trauma, substance use, and co-occurring disorders, as well as mood and personality disorders. My extensive training in EMDR, DBT, CBT, Trait-Based Model, and various other therapeutic modalities allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. My niche and passion lie in creating supportive, effective therapy groups where individuals can find strength in shared experiences.  

Utilizing a blend of theoretical frameworks—including systems theory, strength-based perspectives, shadow work, and narrative therapy—I empower clients to navigate their challenges; to discover the extraordinary within the ordinary and vice versa. I believe in the value of every experience and strive to foster an environment where healing and self-discovery can flourish.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and this is my first job under licensure. Previously I worked as a mental health support/advocate for elementary school students, a case manager, and also as a pharmacy technician for over a decade. I did my internship at a juvenile detention center while living in Texas. My primary modalities include CBT, Solution focused, and reality therapy. I look forward to the growth opportunities working for OLS can provide me! 

Outside of work you can normally find me with my husband of 4 years and our daughter, playing and watching lots of Disney movies. I also enjoy crafting, furniture restoration, art, music, and cooking. I hope to be able to start a patio garden this year as well.

Hi! I’m Kimberly T. Hardin. My role as a Certified Social Worker (CSW) is to provide professional individual and group therapy. I provide services to adults who are 18 and over. I strive to always provide a safe, non- judgmental space to process your thoughts and emotions.

My education includes an Associate’s in Business Management, a Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Kentucky, a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Louisville.

Areas of interest and expertise include: anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loss of identity from aging, chronic illness, grief and loss, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, codependency, abandonment, and borderline personality.

I’m currently accepting new clients and look forward to meeting you.

My name is Loni Faith Wheeler, I’m the Business Development Coordinator at Optimal Living Services. I am a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration & Management. I have my own personal story with recovery, so I can connect with others on the struggles they face daily. I am passionate about helping others to achieve sobriety and providing them the opportunity to thrive again. I live in Richmond with my husband Rich and son Kaden. I enjoy working in the local community and I would love to end the stigma that comes with addiction and mental health issues. As a community, we can help achieve this together.

Hello, My name is Melissa (Missy) Fuson. I am a Peer Support Specialist however, my role at Optimal Living Services is a Business Development Associate. I get out in the community to inform people of all the different services that we provide here at Optimal Living. My goal is to get people in treatment and watch the growth in peoples recovery. I believe my purpose in life is to help others and give back to the community I love!

Hi, my name is Ryan Perry, and I currently work for Optimal Living Services as a Peer Support Specialist. I completed my training for licensure with Mental Health America and am licensed to work in both Kentucky and Ohio as a peer support specialist.

I have been in recovery with a sobriety date of July 4, 2021, after nearly ten years of active addiction. Rebuilding my life would not have been possible without the help of another addict/alcoholic, which inspired me to work in this field and give back what was given to me.

I completed treatment for substance use at The Hope Center, where I also peer mentored and was eventually offered a staff position. I left The Hope Center to pursue other opportunities while working on obtaining my certification for my current role. I actively participate in the recovery community outside of my professional duties.

I am LGBTQ+ affirming and certified in CPR and First Aid.

My name is Ashley , I am a Targeted Case Manager at Optimal Living Services. I earned my bachelor's degree in Social Work from Kentucky State University. I am passionate about advocating for others. Helping clients get back on their feet and accomplish goals to achieve and maintain sobriety. Sometimes just knowing you have a support system and someone who cares and believes in you can make the biggest difference. Seeing clients achieving their goals and becoming successful is a reward in itself.

Hi there! My name is Macy Gregory and I am a Targeted Case Manager at Optimal Living Services. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Family Studies at Eastern Kentucky University. My previous experiences working with individuals from all walks of life, have only further inspired me to be an active advocate for others. An encouraging support system is crucial for those working towards their own personal goals; especially those on their journey to recovery and independence. I find that providing that safe and inclusive space for others to turn to, is what makes this career field so rewarding! It is my goal to be a valuable asset to my clients and our communities, in order to correct the narrative surrounding the stigmas associated with mental illness and work toward improving the overall quality of life for all!

My name is Candice Carper and I am a peer support specialist for Optimal Living. 

I survived 20 years in the grasps of addiction and finally found the solution on June 30, 2022.  Desperation and despair finally lead me to ask for help after my last arrest and I began my journey when drug court sent me to the Hope Center. I then completed the Optimal Living program as a client and am so honored to now have the opportunity to give back to people just like myself, at the same place that gave me the opportunity for a new beginning. Faith, fellowship and Alcoholics Anonymous has given me a life I could never have imagined and now God entrusts me with the privilege of sharing my experience, strength and hope with others.

My name is Rachel, and I currently hold my TCADC. I am pursuing my master's degree with the goal of obtaining my LPCA. With 3.5 years of experience in substance abuse counseling prior to joining Optimal Living Services, I work with individuals in IOP and provide one-on-one counseling tailored to substance use recovery.

My focus is to offer clients a safe, supportive environment to explore their needs and goals in recovery, while encouraging them to grow into the individuals they aspire to be. I primarily use a person-centered approach, meeting clients where they are in their recovery journey. With a background in psychology and a special interest in holistic wellness, I integrate Humanistic and Adlerian principles into my practice to support clients in achieving lasting change.

My name is Anthony James and I am a certified peer support specialist with Optimal Living. I am a recovering addict and my greatest passion is to use my experience in recovery and addiction to help people who are coming out of the same struggles that I went through in life.

Tasha Is a Peer Support Specialist with Optimal Living who believes in the power of Hope. She began her recovery journey on March 17, 2021 when she found herself, once again, lodged in Jessamine County Detention Center. With odds stacked against her, she finally decided to do something different and agreed to try her hand in long term residential treatment. Without realizing she had just taken the first steps to changing her life completely. After completing a long-term treatment program Tasha felt like she finally found her purpose in life and now dreams of sharing her experience, strength, and hope with others so that they too may find their way and live a life free from active addiction.

"Only 1 thing has to change and that's Everything"

Carlton has passion for recovery, and lives out his calling on a daily basis. Carlton has a tremendous amount of experience with recovery, and enjoys mentoring others with his experience. Carlton has devoted his life to living the principles he has learned in recovery. He is an asset to those he serves.

My name is Heather Paterson and I am a CPSS with Optimal Living who believes in second chances. I started recovery on January 6, 2020.

After suffering from addiction for about 25 years, and multiple failed attempts, I finally found out that my desires to live a sober life were stronger than my demons. With the power of love from family, friends, and amazing mentors I regained my hope for what today, tomorrow, and the future has to bring. I would love the opportunity to help others, like me, who are also suffering with addiction.

This role is of the upmost importance to me, and I love what I do! When you are battling addiction support systems are vital for recovery. I want to help others start their recovery process, and I will be there to walk the path along with them. Trust me, it is worth it, and I love to help others find their strength.

I want to show others that who you were, does not mean that is who you will remain. Change is possible. Hope is there. You can live a sober, rewarding, and happy life, and I want to be there to help you on your journey!

My name is Katy and I’ve spent more than half my life not realizing I was an alcoholic and how it affected everything in my life. Being sober is the best thing I’ve ever done. Getting and staying sober and working at Optimal Living Services gives me a chance to be there for the next alcoholic that asks for help. I remember what new sobriety was like and will do whatever I can to help. Sharing my experience, strength and hope and just being there to listen helps me stay sober probably more than it does them.

Nathan Rankin, Peer Support Specialist from Garrard County, walking testament to the power of transformation. With a sobriety date of 06/08/2022, my journey has been marked by battles with addiction and stints in Kentucky state and Federal prisons. But from the depths of despair, I found redemption at Addiction Recovery Care, forging a profound connection with God. Now, fully immersed in my children's lives, I stand tall, proud of the man I've become. Every trial I've faced fuels my passion to uplift others, turning my past struggles into beacons of hope for those in need.

My name is Whitney Tuttle and I’m a certified peer support specialist with Optimal Living Services. I started my recovery journey on June 12 2020, I completed the women’s Hope Center program. Went on to peer mentor, get my peer support certification and became staff before finding a job as a peer support specialist. I enjoy helping men and women in recovery learn how to live and love themselves, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today if it weren’t for the ones that taught me and continue to teach me daily. It’s an honor to be chosen by my higher power to help others like me.

I have a passion for humanity to help others to become all they can be. To reach for the stars. That there is hope and more to life after addiction. All you need is a little faith, willingness, and open mindedness!

My name is Chad Hughes, I am 38 years old. I’m a certified Adult Peer Support Specialist with Optimal Living Services. My sobriety date is April 24, 2022. My passion is helping recovering addicts, because I am a recovering addict. I suffered from the disease of addiction for 20 years, by the grace of God I am sober today, and able to carry the message of sobriety to the addict who is still suffering. My sobriety journey started with Addiction Recovery Care, where I completed long-term residential treatment, I went on to work for Isaiah House Treatment Center where I was a residential house manager and obtained my peer support. At 38 years old my life is just beginning, I am excited to see where this opportunity takes me the sky is the limit.

I am an Optimal Living alumni. Now I am helping women in a place that helped me build my foundation in recovery. My sobriety date is March 14, 2022. I am excited that God has blessed me with the opportunity to give back and help others.

My sobriety date is June 17, 2021. I spent 10 years in addiction, during that time I was lost and hopeless. My journey started at Addiction Recovery Care where I completed long term treatment and obtained my Peer Support Certification. It was during that time that I realized I had found my purpose in life. I worked for addiction recovery care and quickly moved up to the residential coordinator. Today I get to be a daughter, an aunt, and I get to participate in life and share my experience with others.

Alana West, Peer Support Specialist, dedicated to empowering others on their journey to recovery. With a sobriety date of 11/20/2022, I've navigated through seven treatment centers before finding my breakthrough at Addiction Recovery Care. Having battled addiction for over 15 years, I understand the challenges firsthand. Today, I stand as living proof that redemption is possible. Reunited with my children, I attribute my transformation to a strong relationship with God, turning my past struggles into strengths. Let my journey inspire yours towards a brighter, sober future.

Kirista Castle is a dedicated Peer Support Specialist who has committed her life to guiding others on their journey toward recovery and self-discovery. Sober since July 7, 2017, Kirista embodies the principles of self-love, self-acceptance, and independence, which she believes are essential for a fulfilling life free from substances. With a passion for helping others realize their potential, Kirista empowers her clients to find a better way to live, offering them the tools and support needed to embrace a sober lifestyle.

Kirista's own recovery journey has shaped her belief that living without substances is the beginning of a beautiful life. She understands the challenges of overcoming addiction and the transformative power of recovery. Through her work, Kirista strives to show others that a life filled with hope, joy, and purpose is not only possible but also within their reach.

With compassion and unwavering commitment, Kirista Castle continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those she supports, guiding them toward a brighter, substance-free future.

Hi my name is Keene Simpson. I am from Nicholasville, Kentucky and have been sober for over a year. Ever since entering treatment on that date last year I have had a complete transformation of mind and body. I truly feel as if God is calling me to give back now and Optimal Living Services gives me that opportunity. Giving back to the same community that I took from is my way of making amends to the community. I was in active addiction for over 20 years and this past year, for the first time ever, I can honestly say I have had a complete transformation of mind and spirit. I am truly blessed to be a adult peer support specialist today.

Hi my name is Tiffany I am a mom, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend today thanks to my recovery. I have a clean date of 3-15-2023. I became a APSS cause I love watching people who struggle with addiction find a new way of life, and seeing the " light bulb" moments when they realize there is hope. 

My name is David Burkhart and I started drinking at age 13 and tried almost every substance available functionally for 44 years until I was hospitalized in 2022.

My name is William Davis. I am a Kentucky Peer Support Specialist. My sobriety date is 08/07/2018. My job is to help achieve and maintain sobriety while transitioning into the real world. I have dealt with my own experiences with mental health issues and substance use disorders. I'm sharing my personal pain and experience so I can inspire people and help others who are facing similar struggles, as I understand first-hand the difficulties and complexities that arise from these experiences. My Desire to Help Others is a strong motivation for a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Hi my name is Brandon Vanover I am from Danville Kentucky and I have been sober for a little over a year and a half now. Ever since entering treatment I have had a full transformation of my mind body and soul. I can truly see and feel God working on my life and also feel as God is calling me to give back to people just like me by working in this field I work in, which also allows me to give back in a community after taken from mine so long. So today I am truly blessed with being able to work at Optimal Living Services as a peer support specialist.

My name is Joey Price. I’m a certified peer support specialist through BCTC. I’m a graduate of The Hope Center Recovery for Men’s program. I Stayed on as a peer mentor for 7 months to give back to the community and the people who changed my course and saved my life. I love working in recovery and helping clients who struggle with addiction. God has gave me a unique opportunity to have seen both sides of this and be able to reach a hand out to people just like me and I’m forever grateful. 

After almost 20 years of battling addiction, being in treatment centers, SAP programs when I was incarcerated and continuously pushing loved ones, friends, and family away. Enough became enough. I had found my rock bottom and decided it was time for change. Recovery has showed me that living normally is possible and rebuilding relationships can happen. And now I share my experience, strength and hope to individuals here at Optimal Living and I enjoy doing so. If I can help someone make a change in their life I'm living my purpose that I have found within myself.