Scott Wells

My name is Scott Wells, and I am a co-owner and co-founder of SPARC Recovery. After overcoming opiate addiction and spending a year in recovery, SPARC Recovery began at a small kitchen table in Russell Springs. Very soon after I became sober, I decided that I wanted to work in recovery and with those who were battling with addiction. Working in recovery has a unique benefit: on the one hand, it enables us to assist people who are struggling with addiction; on the other hand, it ensures that we remain accountable for our sobriety and recovery. Aside from achieving sobriety for myself, one of my goals was to help people who were helpless and had almost given up regain their self-worth and purpose in life, as well as provide them with the resources necessary to achieve and maintain recovery.

My favorite memories are the ones where I was able to watch individuals complete the SPARC program and achieve their one year sobriety anniversary. I have been married to my amazing wife Marsha for the past 25 years, and we have four beautiful children: Emma, Nik, Caroline, and Lane, as well as one very special grandson, Jay. The importance placed on both God and family is at the heart of SPARC's mission. Because we genuinely care for and value every member of our staff, that is what truly makes SPARC Recovery family.

Alexander Williams

I am an empathetic individual driven by a passion to make a positive impact on the lives of those battling addiction and alcoholism. My journey has led me to the Social Work program at the University of Kentucky, where I've deepened my understanding of how to provide essential support to both clients and fellow staff members. Joining a remarkable company in this field, I am fortunate to witness small miracles unfold each day, further fueling my commitment to this vital work. My diverse experiences have shaped me into someone who is dedicated to making a difference, both in my professional and personal life. When I'm not dedicated to my professional endeavors, I channel my energy into coaching my son's sports activities, embracing the opportunity to witness his growth into a young man.

Fun Fact: I was an avid tennis player throughout my high school years, achieving two regional championships. 

Sondra Salyers

As chief operations officer Sondra uses her creative vision, commitment, and dedication to not only improve the overall quality of the company but to also put client care first. She uses her experience as a recovering addict and alcoholic to meet clients where they're at. Her knowledge and expertise in the field can be seen throughout her daily life. She is currently enrolled in Grand Canyon University where she's pursuing a bachelor's degree in counseling.

"I believe SPARC is the best program in Kentucky because everyone there truly cares about the mental, emotional, and spiritual health of each and every client."

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Fun Fact: Favorite Book- The Big Book,

 favorite chapter- My Bottle, My Resentments, and Me.

Theron Rowe

Theron has thirty years of successful experience in mental health administrative experience and direct care operations. He completes all human resource functions and serves in several additional duty roles. Outside of work Theron enjoys being outdoors and spending quality time with family and friends.

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 "I chose to work in the recovery field because I felt my work and life experience might be helpful to the clients we serve."

Fun Fact: Favorite Leadership Book - The Art

of War.

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Rachel Stephens 

My name is Rachel Stephens. I am a nurse practitioner. I received my undergraduate nursing education at Western Kentucky University and my master degree from Northern Kentucky University. I have been a nurse since 2018 and became an NP in 2021. I grew up with a mom who was and still is an incredible nurse. Her passion and desire to help people through her career greatly inspired my journey to nursing. I loving using this role to teach others about ways to improve their health. I have a deep desire to encourage people to strive to be their best selfs through all avenues of life. I am grateful to be apart of the SPARC team and use this opportunity to help our clients achieve their goals! 

I think what makes SPARC special are the people! Every single person I have come in contact with who works here truly cares and will go above and beyond to ensure the clients know they are cared for. They truly are walking along side each client towards a better future. 

Fun fact: In my “spare time” I also own Stephens Shoes, a local shoe store in town! 

Charlie Wooldrige

I work in this field because there is nothing more gratifying than being able to help other people try to change their lives for the better. I know where our clients have been, so I know how hopeless life can seem when we are in the grips of addiction. Providing structure and tools to cope with daily life challenges not only helps our clients, it also helps me grow on my own personal journey in recovery.

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"I think what makes SPARC special is the individual attention that our clients get and the broad range of services we offer in an effort to bring stability and progress to a persons life."

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Fun Fact: Is working towards a masters degree in social work after 16 years of addiction.

Erica Honeymoon

Erica received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Criminology from Western Kentucky University in 2008 and Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College in 2013.

Erica has over 10 years experience working with individuals struggling with mental health and addictions. Her career has led her to outpatient private practice settings working with adults, children and families; to inpatient hospital setting working with severe mental illness; to substance abuse treatment. These opportunities has given her knowledge and experiences that have contributed to her ability to build rapport quickly and implement interventions to treat the individual as a whole. 

Erica grew up in AA, going to meetings starting as a young child with her father, it was instilled at an early age that alcoholism and addiction is a disease, with treatment and practicing the 12 step model everyday, people do recover. Her experiences with family members and friends in addiction and recovery has not only taught her patience, compassion and understanding but insight on how to help others. Erica has seen people at their rock bottom and lowest points in their lives; to watch the positive change and growth in others, Erica believes is the most rewarding experience of all. 

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Fun Fact: 

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Amanda Jobe

I am Amanda Jobe a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I graduated from Lindsey Wilson College in 2014 with a Masters of Education degree in Human Development and Counseling and in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Services and Counseling. The most rewarding thing I experience while practicing addiction treatment is witnessing the life come back in people’s eyes and seeing them in their successes and meeting their personal goals. I strive to instill hope and offer encouragement to clients as they seek a life of sobriety and work through underlying issues that led to addiction. 

To describe why I think SPARC is special is difficult to put into words. There is a passion that the employees at SPARC have for helping those in recovery that is indescribable. There is a willingness and want to think outside the box of what addiction treatment can and should be that is unlike anywhere I have ever experienced. 

Fun Fact:  I love outdoor activities, especially being out on the lake.

Amberee Livers

Amberee began her career in 1992 at Westlake Cumberland In-Patient Behavior Unit. Starting in 1995 she worked the next 27 years with Adanta.  Amberee's tenure involved many roles with Adanta including Jane Todd Crawford In-Patient Therapist, Eldercare Director, Alternative School Counselor, Therapeutic Rehabilitation Director, Adair Juvenile Detention Therapist, ending as the Adair Clinic Team Leader.  Amberee specializes in alcohol and drug counseling, trauma focused cognitive behavioral counseling, working with severely mentally ill patients, and crisis management.

Besides working at Sparc, Amberee enjoys riding motorcycles, singing, dancing, spending time with family, friends, and laughing. 

What makes Sparc special? "Because when you graduate with us...you have been loved".

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Marian Grant

I am Marian Grant and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I began practicing in
the mental health field in 2019. I retired from teaching and being school counselor after 28
years in December of 2017. After a year of being retired, I always knew I wanted to do
something else. My masters was in counseling and I had many hours past my masters in
counseling so I checked into getting my license and I was able to get that in the spring of 19.
The rest they say is history.
I have always known I wanted to help people. At first I wanted to help children and now it is
addicts and alcoholics. Actually there isn’t a lot of differences in their age. I find the biggest
thing they both need is someone to care and listen to them.
I also find that the traumas I have suffered in my life and my life experiences help me to better
understand my clients and hopefully help them. I want them to feel that they are in a safe place
with someone who loves them.
That is what landed me at SPARC. SPARC is a special place with lots of special people. This
is a wonderful place to work because everyone that works here does because they want to see
these clients succeed and they love for each and every one of them. I love coming to my job
every day and when the comes I don’t then that is when it will become a job.
Fun Fact: When you see me I am usually the one looking for and having everyone else looking
for my phone. I lose it about 4-5 times on a daily basis. Some mornings I have to turn around
and go back home to get it.

Gretchen Flowers

I am Gretchen Flowers, I have been a Nurse for over 20 years and worked in health care for 30 years. I became a Nurse because I saw the love and compassion that my mother had for her job and I wanted to do just that. When I found my home at SPARC it was a blessing. SPARC is rewarding, and its Nursing At a different level. I love being a Nurse and Providing care for each patient that I come in contact with.  I will always provide the best care that I can to my patients  and I will go above and beyond to make sure that my patients are taken care of. Here at SPARC we are all family. I love everything about my job and I am so glad that I have landed here. God knew what he was doing when he sent me to SPARC. Being a light to others in a dark place is very rewarding. 

"In my personal  opinion, SPARC is so special because we are the best at making everyone feel at home. Treating them respect and understanding. Every staff member here at SPARC goes above and beyond to give each patient what they need to have a successful recovery here at SPARC. I love my job! I enjoy going to work  helping people get better with themselves."

Fun Fact: I love shoes! I do not pass up the opportunity to buy a pair of shoes. Enjoy working on the Bodock farm with my family. 

Deb Gaskin Haynes

Deb s a Certified Social worker and received her master’s in social work from Campbellsville University as well as a bachelor’s degree in human services and counseling.
She has worked in community mental health for 13 years serving high school and middle school age children, Crisis interventions, Suicidal Evaluations, Adult day treatment Services, Jail Triage, and adult mental health services.
Most recently she has worked in the addiction field as a clinician helping people in their addiction recovery.
She is the mother of four adult children and loves hiking and finding peace 

in the simple life.
 

"I didn’t choose recovery; God chose me to work in the recovery field. I have felt that since I started in recovery, I am at home, and this is exactly where I need
to be. I have been truly Blessed!"

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Fun Fact: I started hiking 3 years ago

with the start of COVID. I have hiked over 30 places and plan to do more. Plus I love roller skating and drawing.

Natalie Curry

I am Natalie Curry a Certified Social Worker and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have received my Bachelors Degree in Human Services and Counseling, with a Minor in Criminal Justice. I completed my Master’s Degree in Social Work in August of 2022. I am currently working towards obtaining state licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, as well as a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have worked in the helping profession for the last seven years. I knew from early on that I wanted to help people- in my career I always keep in mind “If not I, then who?” My personal mission for each day is to help alleviate shame and  guilt by helping clients understand the “why” behind their emotions and behaviors. To create safe space for clients to be completely themselves and explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions without judgment. I will always make the effort to speak truthfully, empathetically, and kindly. 

"In my personal opinion, SPARC is so special because each client that walks through the doors is treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Every staff member at SPARC will go above and beyond to meet needs that are vital to recovery, however are often overlooked in treatment settings. It is special in itself to love going to work- and I do, everyday!"

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Fun Fact: I am the clumsiest person you will ever meet. If there is an opportunity for a good trip or fall, count on me to make it happen! 

Samantha Trotter 

Samantha is a 1998, and 2006, graduate of Lindsey Wilson College. Her Masters degree is in Mental Health Counseling, and she has been fully licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), since 2010. Samantha has experience working with children in the school setting, the local Advocacy Center, incarcerated juveniles, sex offenders, jail triage, mental inquest warrants, community mental health, and substance abuse. 

Samantha is the mother of three children, and resides in Columbia, Ky. Her interests include being outdoors, movies, and watching her children from the sidelines. 

Favorite memory at Sparc: The Sparc Recovery Celebration Cookout on August 4th, 2023. It was my first AA meeting, and being able to watch the men we have worked with, receive support, and recognition for their accomplishments. It was an amazing personal, and professional experience. 

Being at Sparc has been an experience unlike any other. The community is so supportive, and works in collaboration with staff, to provide a wrap around approach to recovery. I have been blessed to be provided the opportunity to be a part of this incredible team, and I can't wait to see what the future holds. 

Taylor Burton 

Taylor is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She obtained her Bachelors of Arts in Christian Ministry with an emphasis in Pastoral Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College in 2019. She then decided to pursue her Master's degree and returned to Lindsey Wilson College School of Professional Counseling where she completed their Counseling and Human Development program in 2021.  Taylor has years of experience advocating for and serving both individuals and families in the community mental health setting. She believes in client centered care and utilizes various therapy modalities to best meet the needs of the client. 

 
"Taylor believes what makes SPARC so special is the level of care, compassion, and kindness each employee shows to the client's within the program. SPARC creates a family like atmosphere that continuously provides support to our client's even after completion of the program and throughout their lifelong sobriety journey." 

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Fun Fact: My biggest personal goal for the new year is to return back to school and further my education in Christian Counseling

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Dustin Popplewell

I've worked for SPARC for over two years and

have enjoyed being able to grow with the company. I have always been told that I have great leadership qualities, but failed to live up them. Now, I have co-workers who believe in me and I have been able to see those qualities. I am grateful and honored to be in a position to give back with the same company that helped me find myself. Since graduating SPARC and finding God, my life has changed tremendously. I am now able to help others through my many years of addiction and be that shining light for those still in the dark. Today I use those leadership qualities to be a blessing to others .

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 “There is a principle which is a bar against all Information, which is proof against all arguments and which can- not fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance— that principle is contempt prior to investigation.” —Herbert Spencer

Fun Fact: "I will battle anyone in a dance off."

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Stevie Keltner 

As a case manager, Stevie goes above and beyond to ensure that every client receives the attention and support they need to embark on a journey of recovery and personal growth. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and an unwavering passion for helping others, Stevie is currently pursuing a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Stevie’s journey in this field is driven by the desire to empower individuals to enhance their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

What makes SPARC a special place to work? 

“What truly sets SPARC apart is the heartfelt dedication of our entire staff. Each team member shares the same commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel not only welcomed but genuinely cared for and loved. There is no greater reward than hearing clients express their deep appreciation for SPARC, where they find solace, understanding, and a path to healing.”

Julie Page 

My name is Julie Page and I am a case manager at
SPARC Recovery. I graduated from Lindsey Wilson
College in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in
Human Services. I have 27 years experience, working in the field of Human Services. I feel very blessed to work with our SPARC residents. It is such a rewarding experience to see families reunited, individuals gain confidence, and people become self sufficient.

I love SPARC because I see God working in the lives of others, everyday. I am truly grateful to be part of their recovery and their journey. I look forward to work every day. The staff at SPARC create a positive, caring, and loving environment for each and every person they
serve.

Meagan Helton 

Meagan Helton is a compassionate advocate for people recovering from substance abuse and alcoholism. After overcoming addiction herself, she uses her experience to assist others through their journey by providing supportive services and hope. Meagan received her undergraduate degree in Human Services at the University of the Cumberlands and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in addiction counseling. 

Her career in addiction services has given her a deeper understanding about the importance of developing relationships with others to improve their overall well-being and longevity in recovery. 

Meagan is dedicated to the improvement and transformation of our clients. 

“SPARC is special because we are TRULY creating a difference in the lives of our clients and their loved ones, by providing opportunity and preparation for a life of lasting recovery.” 

Darla

My name is Darla, and I am a 7 year old Goldendoodle. I have been working at SPARC since March of 2023. My job at SPARC is to be an emotional support during hard times. I can hold your hand, lay in your lap, or even take you on a walk outside when hard times arise. My favorite parts about SPARC are the endless belly rubs and most of all, the snacks!