Pawnee Mental Health is celebrateing the contributions of Alison Creager, Pamela Steinmetz, and Terri Bushey from the organization's Recovery Services team. Their commitment to excellence sets a standard for the organization and inspires hope in those we serve.
Alison Creagar, LSCSW, LMAC, has been with Pawnee Mental Health for seven years as a Substance Use Therapist within the Recovery Services team. Creagar has a bachelor's in social work from Kansas State University and a master's in social work from the University of Denver. Recently, Creagar achieved a significant milestone by completing her clinical supervision hours and passing their clinical exam, earning the title of Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW). Creager also holds a Licensed Master of Addictions Counseling (LMAC), solidifying her expertise in the field.
Creagar offers individual therapy, group therapy, and assessments in her role. When asked about her choice of joining Recovery Services, Creagar reflected, "Initially, it was because it was an open job, and I knew a few team members already. However, the real reason that I have stuck with Recovery Services is that I get to work with clients who are filled with potential. I have a lot of favorite phases in working with clients. Still, it's always exciting to me to see someone rebuilding their life and getting to support them while they're repairing relationships, rediscovering who they are sober, and doing the work to live the life they want."
Pamela Steinmetz, LSCSW, LMAC, has been an integral part of the Pawnee team since October 2019. Recently, Steinmetz achieved her clinical license to become a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW). Steinmetz also holds a Licensed Master of Addictions Counseling (LMAC) and hopes to get a clinical license for addiction counseling. Motivated to expand her scope of practice and provide more comprehensive care to her clients, she views obtaining her clinical license as a gateway to diverse opportunities and professional growth. Steinmetz values the invaluable learning experience gained through her clinical supervision, where she received guidance and mentorship from seasoned clinical therapists.
Specializing as a dual diagnosis therapist, Steinmetz navigates the complex intersection of substance use concerns and mental health disorders in her practice. With the flexibility to work with either population independently or address the unique needs of clients with dual diagnoses, she demonstrates a holistic approach to therapy. Steinmetz's venture into Recovery Services was sparked by her prior position as an Adult Protective Service worker at DCF, where she closely interacted with individuals facing addiction and mental health hurdles.
Terri Bushey, BA, LAC P-KCGC, a professional in the realm of addiction treatment, has been with Pawnee Mental Health for five years. With a robust background dating back to 1996, Bushey's journey in the treatment field has been remarkable. Bushey, already a licensed addiction counselor, recently achieved a significant milestone by completing training hours for certification as a problem gambling counselor—a goal she had long aspired to achieve. Motivated by the evolving landscape of addiction and the legalization of online betting in the state, Bushey seized the opportunity to expand her services, now offering comprehensive treatment for problem gambling and counseling for concerned others of problem gambling alongside substance use disorder treatment. Notably, this service is fully funded by the State of Kansas.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth, Bushey pursued higher education after all five of her children completed high school. Bushey, fortunate to be connected with some of the state's leading addiction treatment professionals, chose to pursue this path with their encouraging support. "Reflecting, I harbor no regrets; despite its challenges, it's been the most rewarding and fulfilling journey I could have chosen," said Terri Bushey, Counselor.
Pawnee Mental Health serves 10 counties including Geary County