There are so many times where I look back at where I have been and reflect on how far I have come since. A lot has changed since my darkest days, and my life is so much better now than it ever has been before. In many respects, I owe it to Northbound.
When it came to my recovery, I decided to do what was asked of me. I surrendered, dropped my ego and stopped being selfish. I had made so many strides forward, but I was still apprehensive about what to do after treatment in terms of work. I had a few treatment facilities offer me a job, but a big part of me couldn’t see myself working in treatment. However, through some prior relationships to some staff members at Northbound, I decided to accept a position there. Since then, I have developed a strong gratitude for the program, as well as the people.
When it comes down to it, my problems now are quality problems. Three years ago, I was wondering what lawyer to hire, what treatment I should attend, who would sue me next, what jail I would go to, what relationships I had destroyed, etc. Now, I don’t have those worries on my plate anymore, and much of that is because of the support I have received at Northbound. Today, I like who I am, and my life is good. I have great friends, an amazing wife, I love my job, I can enjoy activities, and can look around and realize that I don’t take anything for granted anymore.
Northbound took a huge chance with me. I didn’t want a job, but my sponsor from AA encouraged me to get one. So, they willingly invited me to join the team, and since I had known some of the staff members, I felt comfortable accepting. Since then, Northbound has embraced me with open arms and truly taken me under their wing.
I now not only view my family as a major part of my recovery, but also the people at Northbound, too. Some co-workers of mine have done nothing but help me grow and stay motivated, as well as encourage me to change the way I think and constantly strive to improve upon myself. Today, I am able to utilize their continued support, as well as things like the 12 Steps to stay sober. I can’t thank Northbound enough for all they have done, and all that they continue to do to for me.
Author
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Paul Alexander is the CEO, President & Founder of Northbound Treatment Network in Newport Beach, California. He believes wholeheartedly in transformational leadership, organizational health and effective, fully integrated substance use disorder and mental health treatment. With over 27 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, Paul has extensive knowledge of “in vivo” treatment modalities, clinical development, operations, strategy, marketing and financial planning. He has been widely recognized for his development of collegiate-based residential treatment programs for students in recovery and authored a research study at The University of California confirming this modality’s effectiveness.
Paul’s comprehensive professional experience, willingness to innovate, and emphasis on organizational health are vital factors in Northbound’s continued success. Paul received his Certified Addiction Treatment Specialist training at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, CA, and was awarded Outstanding Alumni Service Award in 2002. Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, Law and Society, Summa Cum Laude, from University of California, Irvine, and a Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola Law School of Los Angeles. Paul currently serves on The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) board. In addition, he serves on The Family Recovery Foundation board and The CarePossible board in Orange County; both organizations are committed to raising funds for family recovery and treatment for former military personnel. Paul is in recovery himself and lives in Orange County with his wife Silvana and his two young sons, Noah and Dean.
