Welcome, Jessica Wood

Please join us in welcoming Jessica Wood to the Healthy Acadia team! 

Jessica joins us as a Maine Recovery Core Intern. Maine Recovery Core Interns offer direct peer support with the aim to improve recovery success among individuals facing substance use disorders. Jessica previously served with Maine AmeriCorps RecoveryCorps, and we are thrilled that she is continuing her highly impactful work through our new Recovery Core model. 

Jessica is currently enrolled in Substance and Mental Health Rehabilitation studies at the University of Maine, and is a trained recovery coach and patient navigator. She resides in Baileyville and provides recovery coaching in Washington County through Healthy Acadia and the Regional Medical Center at Lubec.

Jessica, what prompted you to join the Healthy Acadia team?

I came to work with Healthy Acadia through the Recovery Coach Program at a very vulnerable time in my life exploring ways that could help me move forward with my recovery journey.  The staff and affiliates accepted me where I was at, and without stigma attached.  I will remember that sense of relief and acceptance having not felt that way in a very long time. 

What most inspires you about Healthy Acadia's work? 

It is inspiring and comforting to know that I have the opportunity to work with a team that truly cares about its members and the community they serve.

What most inspires you on a personal level?

I am inspired by those who step forward to ask for help, as well as those who care enough to share and help others. In school, I have been learning so much not only about substance use and mental health challenges, but also about myself, having had these same struggles. Next semester I will graduate, and now with this internship I also look forward to a meaningful career helping those in need of support and guidance. 

What is your favorite thing to do, or place to be, in Maine, and why?

I love just about anything to do with the outdoors. My favorite place to be is Jasper Beach [Machiasport]. I have many memories with my grandparents who lived near there and this is a special place where I can feel inner peace that awakens all of my senses!

Jessica loves all (most) animals, especially her 7 1/2-year-old Rottweiler “fur baby,” Tess. She also enjoys writing, music, cooking, and baking. 

Contact Jessica by email at jessica.wood@recoverycore.org.