Co-Founder of First Step Recovery in 2000. As Agency Director, Michael is responsible for the day to day operation of the agency. In addition to his administrative duties, he also completes nursing intakes, facilitates referrals to the medical community, and is available for community education. Michael has been licensed as a Registered Nurse in North Dakota since 1984.

Patti has worked at First Step Recovery since 2003. She received a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling from Minnesota State University-Moorhead in 1999. She has worked in the addiction field since 2002. In addition to facilitating primary treatment, Patti is also responsible for the supervision and training of clinical staff.

Peggy has worked at First Step Recovery since 2001 and has been a Licensed Addiction Counselor since 1991. Her primary responsibility is to provide chemical dependency consult services for a local hospital. She is responsible for making recommendations and coordinating referrals for individuals in the hospital setting.

Judy has worked at First Step Recovery since 2005. She received a Bachelor’s of Art degree from California State University-Long Beach. She has over 35 years of experience in office administration. As office manager, Judy is responsible for scheduling intakes, accounts payable and receivable, and numerous other duties that help with the operation of the agency.

Renee has worked at First Step Recovery since 2010. Renee obtained a Master’s in Social Work degree from the University of North Dakota in 2007 and has been a Licensed Addiction Counselor in North Dakota since 2007. She is currently responsible for facilitating the Relapse Prevention Program and also completes chemical dependency evaluations.

Jodee is currently completing an Individualized Training Plan through the Fargo Training Consortium as part of the requirements for Addiction Counselor Licensure in North Dakota. She is also completing a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling through North Dakota State University.

Ann has worked at First Step Recovery since 2010. She obtained a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Marquette University in 2005. She has been a Licensed Addiction Counselor in North Dakota since 2006. Ann facilitates the Family Group program.