Shannon Hayes of Family Service Association of Bucks County spoke to our class about her experience and work in the recovery field. Hayes serves as a private therapist and helps to lead a 12 step group that is focused on Buddhist Philosophy.

Hayes touched on her own experience in recovery expressing how she has been sober for many years. She also explained that her family has a long history with drugs and alcohol.

Hays mentioned about the struggles that formerly incarcerated people have when trying to get their life back on track. Finding employment, housing, transportation, medical assistance. She also touched on the current drug court system and the flaws that lie within it.

I found it interesting when Hayes talked about certain groups of people who face more stigma when trying to find treatment.