Patrick Roland, MS, LASAC
Primary Therapist
Employment Start Date: May 2021
Why did you choose a career with The River Source?
I have worked with The River Source’s Clinical Director several times. When he reached out to me to ask me to join his team here, I knew it would be a good fit. I like his management style and I know that he is good to his employees. It makes a huge difference to have a Clinical Director that does whatever he can to make sure everyone feels seen and heard.
How would you describe the training process?
We have group supervision every week where we get to have direct access to our supervisor and learn what we need to do our job well. What has been most helpful is the autonomy to create my own destiny, including the opportunity to train others. Beyond training for the job, I have also been encouraged to do professional development. I start courses to get my EMDR certification next week.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The clients. I love working with drug addicts and alcoholics and I especially love being a conduit to help them change their lives into a new life beyond anything they ever imagined by becoming sober. Sobriety is a miracle. Everyone deserves it no matter what they have done in their addiction.
How would you describe the culture and work environment?
I have always worked for state funded treatment centers and clinics, so I had to pivot my approach and expectations here. Now that I know what to expect, I love the environment here. I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would be a licensed therapist, but here I am and I’m grateful to get to work with other professionals. We all love what we do and the people we serve.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of working at The River Source?
Helping people who are at their rock bottom climb out of the abyss of drug addiction and alcoholism find their sparkle.
How has The River Source helped you develop your professional skills?
I’m being supervised for clinical hours to earn my independent license and getting individual and group supervision hours every week. I’ve also been encouraged to get my certification in EMDR, which is going to make me a better therapist and give me the opportunity to help clients walk through their trauma.
What potential is there for career growth at The River Source?
Well, I know of some things in the pipeline, but I don’t think they have been officially announced yet so stay tuned. I know great things are coming and I am excited to be on the precipice of some of the greatest career growth I have ever had the experience to do!
What’s one memorable moment you've had since working here?
I have a client, who was initially against the idea of having a higher power, complete an assignment about coming to believe in a higher power yesterday. His whole belief system had changed. Not only had he accepted the idea of spirituality and how it could help him, but he was also able to say he felt like it was working in his life and that gave him hope for his future.
Why should someone ultimately consider a career at The River Source?
The clinical team is amazing, the leadership is incredible and the clients – the heartbeat of everything we do – are beautiful people who get a second shot at life because of the work we’re doing at The River Source. There is nothing more rewarding than watching someone grow into who they really are. It’s unforgettable work that is a blessing and joy to be a part of.