Nichole Worthington has been in recovery for 8 and a half years and credits her faith with keeping her on the right track. She says her co-workers at Thrive Peer Recovery Services, where she has worked for over 2 years, inspire her to keep moving forward.
This is part 2 of Thrive’s “Meet the Team” series. Get to know one of our certified peer recovery supporters, Nichole Worthington.
Tell us your recovery story.
I have been in recovery since January 12, 2014. I am very involved in all aspects of my recovery journey. I would not be where I am if it was not for God.
What is your favorite thing about going to work?
Being able to help the next person who does not see a way out of their misery and to show that recovery is possible.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My salvation, knowing that my soul has a safe place to dwell after I die. Also, graduating from high school despite the circumstances that surrounded me at that time. I was pregnant with my first child and no one thought that I would make it to my graduation and that I would have dropped out of school because of my baby.
What is the best piece of advice you give to your clients?
If you’re trying you’re dying — just do it!!! Don’t allow yourself to make excuses for overcoming something that was meant to strengthen you and not destroy you.
What inspires you in your career?
My peers that I work with daily are proactive in their own journey, whether that be substance use disorder or mental health. They inspire me to not give up and to keep moving forward.
Tell us about your family.
I have been married for seven years to a wonderful man who I met in recovery. We have four sons who are so resilient and courageous. We also have four cats.
What do you do for fun?
Read, pottery, nature walks, happy planning, gardening.
What is on your bucket list?
Skydiving and traveling to Germany and Ireland
What is your favorite restaurant or spot to hang out?
I love to eat at Acapulco and enjoy Chinese food.
If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
My grandma’s spaghetti.
If you could go to dinner with anyone, living now or in the past, who would it be and why?
My grandpa because he was my biggest fan. I only got to live 11 years with him.
Do you have any pet peeves and what are they?
Leaving all the cabinets open in the house, being overstimulated.
What’s your favorite movie or TV show?
Top Gun: Maverick, Ghost, and Dirty Dancing
What was the best vacation you ever took and why?
Traveling down to Arkansas with my family. Being able to connect and enjoy each others’ company was a blessing.
What three items would you take with you on a deserted island?
I would take a book, knife, and a pot.
Is there anything you want to mention about your professional and educational history before joining Thrive? Or any civic activities you are involved in?
I have been able to have the opportunity to be on TV to share my story of addiction and recovery and I hope that story was able to help others. I also had the privilege of helping to open up a sober living house five years ago and I serve on the board of directors for that house.
Stay tuned for more meet the Thrive team content coming soon!
