As we recognize National Recovery Month this September, we also highlight the individuals who work tirelessly to support others on their recovery journeys. Such as Michelle Fitchett – a dedicated Substance Abuse Counselor in our Addiction Treatment Program (ATP). Michelle’s work is a testament to her adaptability and commitment to helping others through some of the most difficult times in their lives.
Michelle’s career with VOADV began in 2019 when she was originally hired at ATP. After quickly showing skill and dedication, Michelle was promoted to Shift Supervisor, a role that built upon her background in mental health and behavioral health.
“I came from a background of working in the mental health field with both adults and children,” Michelle explains. This experience helped her seamlessly transition into the parole environment at ATP, where she adapted quickly. “I’m used to dealing with behavior planning and building IEP plans for our clients…coming into working with parole was kind of second nature,” she recalls.
At ATP, Michelle discovered her passion for helping clients on their journey to rebuild their lives. “I adapted well, already knowing our clients’ care comes first,” she says. “ATP gives our clients the ability to believe that there is such a thing as a second chance in life – making sure they get the services they need and helping them to be as comfortable as they can with our program was a plus for me.”
Her role as Head Intake Coordinator allowed her to directly interact with clients, often being the first person they would meet upon arrival. This personal connection meant a lot to Michelle. “I would often hear, ‘Oh, you’re Ms. Fitchett. We hear about you all the way in South Woods, Bayside, Southern State.’ That was very touching for me, and I already enjoy my job, so to hear that was a plus.”
Michelle takes pride in providing a welcoming, non-judgmental environment for clients, especially those who may feel apprehensive upon arrival. “Sometimes, when our clients come in, they just want to be heard and not judged for their past decisions. From the start of any intake, I let my clients know—especially if they come in standoffish— ‘I’m not here to judge you. No matter what I read, this is my first time meeting you, and it’s my job to get to know who you are the day I meet you and nothing else.”
Michelle’s dedication to her clients isn’t only professional—it’s deeply personal. “I have had hands-on experience dealing with addiction with my mother and the father of my children,” she shares. Both her mother and her children’s father have now been in recovery for several years, and her personal experiences have provided her with a unique understanding of what clients may be going through.
Her ability to combine personal and professional experiences has made her an impactful force at ATP and her commitment to her work didn’t go unnoticed by her supervisors. She was asked to become a Substance Abuse Counselorby Ms. Natal and after initial reluctance, she decided to pursue it.
In her current role, Michelle is responsible for assisting clients in the complex process of addiction recovery. The impact she’s made is undeniable. Clients often share their success stories or thank her for the help they received. Whether it’s a successful completion of the program or simply the knowledge that she made a difference in someone’s life, Michelle’s work brings her deep fulfillment.
“I love the fact that I make an impact on someone, sometimes without even knowing it. I enjoy coming to work. I enjoy hearing clients say, ‘Guess what, Ms. Fitchett, I was able to accomplish this or that.”
As we observe National Recovery Month, Michelle Fitchett’s story is a reminder that working in recovery is more than just a job—it’s a mission to make sure that every client knows they are not alone. Her dedication to listening without judgment and supporting her clients every step of the way makes her a powerful advocate for those on their recovery journeys.
“When clients reach out to me for help, I go 100% to make sure I can help them,” she says. “We as a program work together to make sure we can make it happen.”