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When Anthony first came to The Up Center, he needed a assessment to restore his driver’s license after three DUIs. But what began as a court requirement quickly became something far more meaningful—a turning point in his life. What started as a mandatory step toward regaining his license became the moment he decided to face the truth about his struggles, not only with alcohol but with the pain and stress that had followed him for years.

Through The Up Center’s Substance Use Counseling and Peer Recovery Program, Anthony began addressing the root causes of his substance use. He realized that his drinking wasn’t just about alcohol—it was how he had learned to cope with loss, grief, and the pressure of trying to hold everything together. With support from his therapist and peer recovery team, Anthony participated in multiple levels of care, including DUI programming, individual counseling, peer support, and family therapy.

For the first time, he had people who listened without judgment. “I had someone who just opened their ears and gave me professional advice on how to handle and cope with the situations I was dealing with,” he shared. That support became a lifeline as he navigated his father’s battle with cancer, the grief that followed, and the challenge of rebuilding trust with his children. Step by step, he began to heal—not just from addiction, but from years of emotional pain.

Three years later, Anthony’s life looks very different. He’s sober, rebuilding his relationships, and helping others see that recovery and mental health care are not signs of weakness—they are acts of strength. His story is a reminder that true change begins when someone is willing to ask for help and that with compassion, guidance, and time, even the most difficult roads can lead to hope and healing.

When Joel began his recovery journey with The Up Center, his thoughts often felt like his biggest enemy. Whenever life became stressful or uncertain, his mind would spiral—pulling him back toward the same habits he was fighting to leave behind.

Through counseling and peer support, Joel learned to slow down and approach his recovery with intention. He discovered the power of mindfulness and meditation, using them as tools to quiet his thoughts and regain control in moments of temptation. Instead of reacting to stress with substance use, he now takes time to breathe, reflect, and make better decisions for himself and his future.

As Joel shared in his own words, “I’ve made changes on how to make better decisions and meditate instead of overthinking any situation that could cause flashes of trying to drink or do any type of drugs.”

His progress is a reminder that recovery is not just about abstaining—it’s about transforming the way you think, cope, and care for yourself. With support from The Up Center, Joel is building a life grounded in peace, mindfulness, and lasting change.

When John first came to The Up Center, he was seeking help for substance use. Years of internal struggle and depression had taken a toll on his relationships, his health, and his sense of self-worth. Completing substance use treatment was a major step forward—but John knew his healing journey wasn’t over.

Instead of walking away after finishing the program, he made a powerful choice: to continue with mental health counseling. Through consistent therapy and support, John began to develop healthier ways to manage his emotions and cope with depression. He learned to reach out to others instead of isolating, to write down his thoughts through journaling, and to use physical activity as a way to release stress.

These new habits began to take root. John stayed substance-free, learned to express his anger without harming himself or others, and began rebuilding trust with his family. He set a schedule to stay connected with his support network—something that keeps him grounded and reminds him he’s not alone.

Today, John reports that he feels better than he has in years. His depression symptoms have decreased, his relationships have strengthened, and he sees real hope for his future.

John’s story is one of courage, commitment, and transformation—a reminder that recovery is not just about breaking free from substance use, but about rediscovering purpose, connection, and the confidence to move forward.

When Katie first came to The Up Center’s Suffolk office in April, she was ready to make a change. At 22 years old, she was facing the consequences of a DUI from the previous year—a mistake that had led to a brief period of incarceration and a turning point in her life. Though she had stopped drinking, she was still using marijuana to cope with stress and uncertainty about her future.

Through The Up Center’s individual substance use treatment program, Katie began to unpack the challenges that had brought her to this moment. With support and guidance, she learned healthier ways to manage her emotions and daily stress—replacing old habits with new coping skills and a sense of self-discipline.

After just a few months of treatment, Katie’s progress was remarkable. She remained substance-free, successfully completed all of her Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program requirements, and began looking ahead to the future with determination and confidence. Her next step: joining the military, where she hopes to serve her country and continue building a life rooted in purpose and stability.

Katie’s story is one of strength and transformation. What began as a moment of hardship became the catalyst for a future defined by resilience, growth, and hope.