11/08/2025
A picture. My photographer. A tribute to a friend.
This photo isnโt just a snapshot of a moment โ itโs a reminder of how deeply important and challenging the work is in addiction treatment.
I still remember the call that started my supervision placement โ someone needed help, and no one else had experience or training in supporting SUDโs. Something about that moment pushed me to not only show up, but to make support more accessible and affordable.
My friend (Brody), the photographer behind this picture, jumped in right away to help me get the word out. Some quick, โshotgunโ marketing, he called it. He just wanted people to know help was available.
He passed last year from substance-related causes and other difficult circumstances. Recovery was part of his story too. He was kind, joyful, and always eager to do something good โ like this.
This coming March marks five years since I began my private practice work as an addictions counsellor, after already spending three years in the field in different roles.
Since that day, Iโve had the privilege to sit with so many incredible people, work with great teams, and this past year, co-found Frederictonโs newest outpatient program: Rise Recovery.
People have joined, organizations have even sponsored some individualโs programs, and in 2026, it will be offered to rehabilitation centres that do not have addiction counsellors on staff.
It is specialized, evidence-based, professionally lead, and about one-fourth the average cost. Most importantly, it was designed with people who hold lived experience. It is uniquely designed as a structured program that is also tailored to each personโs story and needs.
This isnโt meant as self-promotion. Itโs just a reminder that what began years ago with a friendโs support has kept moving forward โ each step still focused on the same mission: helping one more person recover and removing the barriers in their way.
*My friendโs father Rick LeBlanc was comfortable with the post, and wanted Brodyโs name share
