We are delighted to introduce Alyssa Resendiz, MS, ADDC, Primary Counselor at CuraWest in Denver. Alyssa holds a Master of Science in Clinical Behavioral Health with an emphasis in Addiction Counseling.
Pandemic Reset
As it did for many of us, the COVID-19 Pandemic created some challenges for Alyssa that led to a life-changing opportunity.
“I was working in hospitality management and wasn’t completely happy, but I didn’t want to jeopardize job security to try something new,” she said. “Then the pandemic happened, and travel stopped. It was scary but also exciting because I realized I could do anything I wanted to do.”
Alyssa’s “anything” turned out to be returning to school and earning her master’s degree in Clinical Behavioral Health.
Finding A Home in Addiction Services
Alyssa was unsure what branch of behavioral health she wanted to focus on, but she knew one thing for sure. “I wanted to stay away from substance abuse because I experienced it through family and friends and didn’t think I wanted it in my work,” she said.
But fate intervened.
“I had an amazing advisor in my first semester who thought it would be a good fit for me,” Alyssa continued. “She arranged an internship for me, and before long, I realized this is where I belong. It’s a world I understand. It’s people who are resilient and trying their best, and I love working with them.”
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CuraWest Connection
When it came to CuraWest, fate intervened again, as one of Alyssa’s classmates connected her to the counseling role. “One of my classmates worked here, and he texted me saying they were looking for a therapist,” she said. Alyssa was initially reluctant to apply based solely on her classmate’s prompting. “But he ignored me and told me his boss would call me the next day.”
That boss called as promised and, according to Alyssya, they “instantly clicked.”
“I went in for an interview and saw the team interacting with clients, and I could tell they loved what they were doing,” she recalled. “I was all in after the first five minutes of the interview.’”
Days Start With Team Focus
Since treatment is tailored to the unique needs of each client, there’s no such thing as a typical day at CuraWest. However, for employees, each shift starts with a team meeting.
“We triage all clients, and then I jump right into working with them,” she said. “Part of what we do is talk about whatever stage they’re in and what they need now or in the future. I do a lot of education on what their options are.”
What Makes CuraWest Special
Culture was the first thing that came to mind when we asked Alyssa what made CuraWest special, as she believes the diversity of staff backgrounds is the “secret sauce.”
“Each of us comes from a different background and has different theoretical orientations,” she said. “Some individuals are in recovery. Some have experienced addiction through family and friends. So everyone brings a different flavor, enabling us to connect with all of the different clients.”
Weekends Are for the Outdoors
When asked what she likes to do in her spare time, Alyssa confessed to a typical Colorado answer. “I love being outdoors!” she said. “I love camping and hiking and just getting outside with my dogs. It helps me get grounded.”
When it comes to time inside, Alyssa says, “If I can read and cook, I am happy.”
Our Locations
Our Facilities & Teams Transform Lives
Changing lives by providing comprehensive support and rehabilitation, empowering individuals to overcome addiction and regain control of their health and well-being.
Delray Beach, Florida
Princeton, New Jersey
Denver, Colorado
Largo, Florida
Portland, Maine
Plymouth, New Hampshire
Pine Brook, New Jersey
Come Check Us Out
Alyssa admits to being a bit biased, but said she would recommend that anyone considering substance misuse treatment “come check us out.”
“This community is unlike anything else you’ll ever find,” she said. “Our staff and clients are some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. No matter what life throws at them, they will not stay down and will go out of their way to support each other. That’s why I come to work every day. I love to see people come in and positively exclaim, ‘I didn’t expect it to be like this.’”
SELF-ASSESSMENT:
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Disclaimer: Does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes, as individual results may vary. Our services are not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis; please consult a qualified healthcare provider for such matters.
