Spotlight Series – TJ Howard

Spotlight Series – TJ Howard, B.S., LCDC  – Corporate Director of Program Support Services

TJ is a Certified Criminalist who earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of North Texas, where he worked as a teacher and a private tutor while doing post-graduate work in biology and chemistry. TJ is dedicated to helping and working with other alcoholics and addicts, and he has been a strong member of 12-Step community in Dallas, TX.

What brought you to Origins? 

I was looking for a job when Origins was initially getting started. Through a mutual friend, I crossed paths with one of the Origins’ founders. After interviewing and mutually deciding that it was a good fit, I came aboard as one of the first employees.

What have you learned through your experience working in treatment?

Learning is a lifelong process, and I have definitely learned countless life lessons throughout my career in the treatment industry. One specific thing I realize is that the treatment industry is always changing. Keeping up in this field requires consistent internal review and personal inventory in order to continue to provide the highest quality of care to the families that are in need.

If there were only one thing you could tell us about working in the area of treatment, what would it be?

I’ve been lucky enough to work in all of the specialty areas of Origins: recovery advocate, admissions, operations, programming, clinical, cooking and cleaning – basically just whatever the company needs me to do.

Throughout this process, I’ve extremely enjoyed observing the culture and energy that has manifested as a result of the founders’ beliefs and the employees who have been hired. I have never worked with such like-minded professionals organization- wide. The “common thread” that is essentially the heartbeat of Origins is the fact that ALL staff share the belief system that we are charged with the task of “holding space” for clients and their families while internal shifts occur and recovery begins.

Watching clients and families recover while relationships mend is one of the brightest spots of my life. It’s why I continue to LOVE what I do.

Do you hold any credentials or certifications, or do you participate in any other professional activities outside of work?

I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor out of Texas, and I am currently an Arise Intervention Intern.

Are you in recovery yourself? If so, what do you love most about being in recovery? 

I am a recovered alcoholic that is in recovery. I LOVE the people I cross paths with while on the spiritual journey of recovery. I’ve met many people who have grown to become some of my closest friends and family.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Do you have any pets or engage in special hobbies?  

My beautiful wife Claudia and I were recently blessed with a healthy daughter who is now eight months old. So, as for spare time – I don’t have any! Along with learning how to be a parent, I have two large dogs. I also enjoy physical exercise and reading.

Is there anything else you might like to share? 

Being part of Origins Behavioral HealthCare has been one of the greatest things in my life. I have “grown up” with the company, and I am excited to see what comes next both personally and professionally with Origins. I truly consider Origins as part of my own family, and I look forward to the future.