Marcia Bannister Executive & Clinical Director Recovery Center of Baton RougeQ: What is the most rewarding part of being on staff at The Recovery Center Intensive Outpatient Program?

I find joy and purpose in watching individuals and families reconnect and heal through recovery.
Q: What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy attending La. festivals, concerts and plays. Travel is my real passion. My goal is to visit all the places on my bucket list.

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Accepting when I have done all that I can and helping families to let go.

Q: Do people really recover from alcohol and drug addiction?

Definitely, just go to a birthday meeting at AA or a speaker meeting to see the miracles of recovery

Q: Do you have any pets?

Yes. I have a 3 year old Boxer named Remy and a 6.5 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Abby.

Q: What are the most common barriers to recovery you see people face in early on in their treatment?

I think the need to change friends and developing a new social support system is very challenging. Also the idea of surrendering to a new lifestyle.

Q: What is your favorite restaurant?

Middendorf’s in Manchac, La.

Q: What lead you to work in the addiction recovery field?

After working in the criminal justice system early in my career, I began to believe that there had to be a better solution than the “revolving door” in prisons. I am also an ACOA.
Q: What is your style of facilitating group sessions?
I would have to say that I am laid back but will confront when necessary. I also use humor as a means to build relationships within the group.
Q: What is the most important thing you’d like your clients to learn while in treatment?
That there is always hope.
Q: Who are your role models?
I would have to say my mother and my daughter. My mother taught me to be self-reliant. My daughter taught me to take risks and the meaning of unconditional love. Of course I have had several mentors over the years.
Q: How would you describe The Recovery Center?
A place where you are always welcome and a Staff that is truly a family that cares and will go that extra mile to help you.
Q: What’s your favorite movie?
“To Kill a Mockingbird”with Gregory Peck.