Staff Spotlight, Amy Allison

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Amy Allison (she/her), and I am a Behavioral Health Specialist-Float, splitting my time between The Emily Program’s Outpatient and Residential Treatment Centers in Cleveland, Ohio. I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA), and a Registered Yoga Teacher 200 (RYT-200). I have been with The Emily Program since April 2023.

What does a typical day look like for you at The Emily Program?

Each day looks different. I am lucky to be able to help in multiple programs in various ways. Most days, I cover a yoga class and a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group, as well as help with meal support.

What would you like people to know about the role of a Behavioral Health Specialist (BHS)?

I would like people to know that the BHS role is meant to help create a consistent therapeutic environment for clients. In my experience, BHSs spend a lot of time face-to-face with clients and can help program staff with day-to-day things as well.

What motivates you to show up for work each day?

I truly enjoy helping people. I love what I do, and my passion for this work combined with being able to help others motivates me to show up every day.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

I love to be outside. I find nature incredibly calming and relaxing. Being outside allows me to chill out and connect with nature and myself.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

My family owns the oldest mini golf course in the United States. It’s called Allison’s Mini Golf, located in Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio. I spent most of my life working there with my family, and it truly is a magical place.