Michael Santoro named Vice President of Finance; Katelyn Fisher appointed Director of Operations
ETHOS Treatment, LLC, a leading provider of care for individuals and families who struggle with substance use disorder and/or mental health issues, is pleased to announce the addition of two executives. Michael Santoro has been named Vice President of Finance, and Katelyn Fisher has been named Director of Operations. As members of the leadership team, Santoro and Fisher will help drive the organization’s growth and development as the region’s premier Intensive Outpatient Programs provider.
“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the team,” said co-founder and CCO, Michael Blanche MSS, LCSW, “His deep understanding of financial management and strategic planning will be instrumental as we continue to grow and enhance our services to meet the evolving needs of our clients.”
Santoro has more than 15 years of experience in accounting and finance across diverse industries, serving in roles of increasing responsibility with companies ranging from $700M to $2B in revenue.
Fisher also brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new position, including seven years in client-facing roles supporting children and adolescents on the autism spectrum. As Director of Operations, she is committed to leveraging her expertise to drive organizational excellence and ensure the delivery of high-quality services to those in need.
“Kate’s multifaceted experience across client care, intake, billing, and operations, along with her adaptability and strategic mindset, have equipped her with a holistic understanding of the behavioral health landscape,” added Blanche.
Santoro earned a B.S. in Accounting from Saint Joseph’s University and an MBA in Finance from Boston College. Fisher holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bloomsburg University.
Parenting is a challenging journey, and when you discover that your child is struggling with substance use disorder, the difficulty of the path can feel overwhelming. In these complex times, it can be incredibly beneficial to turn to the wisdom found in “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. These four simple yet profound principles can serve as a guide for parents dealing with kids facing substance use disorders. In this blog, we’ll explore how applying these principles can help you navigate this complex and emotionally charged situation.
Agreement 1: Be Impeccable with Your Word
The first agreement emphasizes the importance of speaking with integrity, being honest, and avoiding harmful or hurtful language. In the context of parenting a child with substance use disorder, being impeccable with your word means maintaining open and honest communication. Here’s how to apply this principle:
Non-judgmental Communication: Engage in conversations with your child and loved one without judgment. Avoid criticism, blame, or shaming. Instead, express your concerns and love while listening to their perspective. Inviting language.
Clearly communicate the boundaries you expect your child to follow. This helps establish a sense of structure and accountability. Ensure that your rules are reasonable and realistic. Speak out about
The Power of vulnerability – for yourself and others. To not be afraid to tell your story to your people and your tribe.
Speaking our truth can be the end of isolation, isolation is at the core of addiction and mental health issues
Finding a safe place to share your truth making sure you have the safe, right audience to share, non-judgmental group
Being able to speak with integrity with meaning and less reaction.
How we speak to ourselves and our own self narrative – Don’t’ be so hard on yourself
Intentional with your word- think about what you are saying as people are listening
Mindful of the impact of your word
Agreement 2: Don’t Take Anything Personally
When dealing with a child struggling with substance use disorder, it’s essential not to take their actions personally. Their behavior is often a manifestation of their own struggles and not a reflection of your parenting skills. Here’s how to implement this agreement:
Self-Reflection: Understand that you are not responsible for your child’s choices and actions. Self-blame can be counterproductive. Instead, focus on supporting them through their journey.
Empathy and Compassion: Practice empathy and compassion towards your child. Recognize that they are facing a challenging battle, and your support can make a significant difference in their recovery.
Be curios, ask questions and explore what is someone’s motive, perspective and insights.
Seek Support: Connect with support groups or therapy for yourself. Dealing with a loved one’s substance use disorder can take a toll on your emotional well-being. Reaching out for help, professionally as well with peer parent support can provide you with the strength to continue supporting your child.
Agreement 3: Don’t Make Assumptions
Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. To effectively support your child through their substance use disorder, practice the third agreement:
Ask Questions: Check things out, Rather than assuming you know what your child or loved one is going through, ask them about their experiences and feelings. This can help you gain insight into their world.
Gather Information: Educate yourself about substance use disorder, its causes, and treatment options. By doing so, you can have informed discussions and make better decisions for your child’s well-being.
Collaborate with Professionals: Avoid making assumptions about the best course of action. Instead, consult with addiction specialists, counselors, and medical professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Not knowing, being humble allows for someone to reach out and review their truths.
Agreement 4: Always Do Your Best
Parenting a child with substance use disorder is undoubtedly challenging, but always doing your best is crucial for both your child and yourself:
Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest research and treatments related to substance use disorder. This demonstrates your commitment to helping your child.
Self-Care: Remember that you can’t support your child effectively if you neglect your own well-being. Prioritize self-care, including adequate rest, nutrition, and stress management. Self-inventory, HALTS, Your best will change any given day
Celebrate Progress: Recognize and celebrate even the smallest steps of progress in your child’s recovery journey. Encouragement can be a powerful motivator.
An acceptance of where you are on the journey
Allowing yourself to be where you are, maybe you are at 50% capacity.
Conclusion
Looking at the system, not just the symptoms. Applying the principles of “The Four Agreements” in your parenting, you can provide the support and guidance you need. Be impeccable with your word, avoid taking things personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. Remember that your unwavering love and commitment can make a significant difference in your child’s path to recovery. Seek support when needed and be patient, find pause as healing takes time and effort for both you and your child. Collaboration, connection and community are invaluable tools in decreasing addiction symptoms, as well breaks isolation at it’s core. The four agreements can be a path to hope and healing if you can have an open mind. A. Michael B.
In the journey toward recovery from mental health issues or substance use disorders, finding the right support system is crucial. ETHOS Treatment LLC offers a highly effective Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) option that provides comprehensive support without the need for a residential stay, making it a perfect choice for people seeking a balance between their recovery process and daily life responsibilities.
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program?
An Intensive Outpatient Program is a structured treatment option that provides individuals with the freedom to live at home while receiving comprehensive therapy and support for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. ETHOS clients commit to three or four sessions per week, each lasting several hours.
“The goal is to interrupt a self-destructive routine with a healthy routine, thereby breaking the cycle of a mental health or substance use issue,” says Eric Tankel, M.S.ED, LPC, CAADC, whose clinical practice focuses on support young adults and adolescents facing challenges related to addiction and mental health. “This level of intensity supports significant progress without the need for overnight hospitalization.”
The Effectiveness of IOPs for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
The effectiveness of Intensive Outpatient Programs lies in their multifaceted approach to treatment. Here are several reasons why IOPs are particularly beneficial:
Accessibility and Flexibility – IOPs help clients who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy can offer. This setup allows participants to integrate their treatment into their daily lives, maintaining employment and family commitments while prioritizing their health.
Comprehensive Support – With a focus on group therapy, IOPs create a supportive community where individuals can share experiences, challenges, and successes. This sense of community is invaluable for recovery, providing empathy, understanding, and mutual encouragement. Additionally, individual therapy and medication management address personal issues and psychiatric needs, respectively, ensuring a personalized treatment plan.
Skill Building and Education – ETHOS’s IOP excels in offering practical skills and knowledge to manage mental health symptoms or abstain from substance use. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and stress management techniques, participants learn to navigate challenges, prevent relapse, and build a foundation for long-term recovery.
“ETHOS’ proven IOP includes a holistic blend of individual counseling, small group therapy, and family therapy that fosters recovery, resilience, and independence,” added
Sean Smith, MA, M.Ed., LPC, CAADC, an ETHOS clinician who has extensive experience facilitating IOP programs and with conducting family support groups. “IOP has several advantages over other treatment options, making them an optimal choice for many.”
Why IOPs Are the Best of Both Worlds
Balance Between Intensive Care and Independence – IOP strikes the perfect balance, offering intensive care that rivals inpatient programs while allowing participants to apply learned skills in real-world settings immediately. This integration facilitates a smoother transition to everyday life post-treatment.
Cost-Effectiveness – Without the need for overnight stays, IOPs are generally more affordable than inpatient programs. This accessibility ensures that more individuals can receive high-quality care without the burden of excessive costs.
Continuity of Care – IOPs often maintain a continuity of care that is seamless with the individual’s existing support system, including family and community resources. This continuity is crucial for sustaining recovery and preventing relapse.
Start your journey to recovery now by calling ETHOS at 267.669.0300.
