Hello! I just wanted to introduce myself as a new member of the ACA. My name is James Gibbons and I am currently a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor for UnityPoint Health in Muscatine, Iowa. I am currently a graduate student at the University of South Dakota pursing my Master's degree in addiction studies with co-occurring specialization. I am also a recent graduate from the University of Northern Iowa with a BA in Psychology. I became interested in the addictions field because I am a recovering alcoholic (10/10/10) and wanted to help others who struggle with a substance use disorder and want to create positive change in their lives. The past five years has been dedicated to learning the science of addiction, counseling methods, making positive lifestyle changes, and keeping up with current research. I joined ACA because I wanted to expand my knowledge and improve my skills as a counselor. My core belief is that in order to create change, the counselor must show empathy, show respect, involve the client with the treatment planning, and be willing to help at anytime (especially after the client has completed treatment). I just wanted to say thank you for allowing me to join ACA of Iowa and I am looking forward to getting involved any which way I can.
------------------------------
James M. Gibbons, CADC
UnityPoint Health - New Horizons
Muscatine IA