Union Recognizes National Recovery Month This observance offers the opportunity to highlight the career of alumna Kerry Skiffington.
A Message of Hope
Kerry Skiffington
A Message of Hope
Too often the stigmatizing of addiction leads to self-loathing. But Addictions Recovery Counselor Kerry Skiffington, M.A. says, “These are people with a problem. I have found my clients to be some of the most creative and sensitive individuals who have enormous gifts to offer society, if they will believe in their own significance.”
The Vermont resident is pursuing a career in addictions recovery to help such people. “Unfortunately, my state is challenged by a drug epidemic,” said Skiffington. “I want to be part of the solution.”
Her training as a Hypnotherapist prepared her in group facilitation, meditation and mindfulness but to work in substance abuse, she had to have a master’s in counseling. She looked for a university that could accommodate that goal.
“I had to work and I had children at home. I couldn’t quit my job and attend a bricks-and-mortar school,” said Skiffington. “I searched for a university that offered flexibility, online classes and face-to-face academic experience.”
She found Union’s hybrid program to be the ideal solution to fit the needs for a true adult student without sacrificing quality.
“I loved my time at Union. My professors were excellent, both online and in-person at the New England Academic Center in Brattleboro. I cherish the time spent with them and my fellow students,” said Skiffington.
Pursuing a career goal is not always easy but it is possible. “My Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling are allowing me to help people and change lives,” said Skiffington.
She offers this message of hope to people challenged by substance abuse. “You can live a productive and meaningful life. I try and show them the road to recovery exists.”