NARR Advisory Council
At the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), we're proud to have a dedicated Advisory Council composed of distinguished leaders and experts in the field of recovery housing. Our Advisory Council members bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our mission, guiding NARR in its commitment to enhancing access to quality recovery residences. Their expertise supports our strategic direction, helps develop best practices, and ensures that NARR remains at the forefront of advocacy and support for recovery communities. Meet our esteemed Advisory Council members:
David Best, PhD
David Best is a trailblazer in the recovery community, renowned for his groundbreaking work in recovery science. With a Ph.D. in addiction psychology, David's research has significantly influenced recovery residence practices and policies worldwide. His focus on social identity and community integration in recovery has led to the development of models that are both innovative and effective. David's guidance ensures that NARR's approaches are evidence-based and centered on fostering lasting recovery.
Susan Binns
With a background in public health and addiction recovery, Susan Binns brings to NARR a profound understanding of the systemic barriers faced by those seeking recovery. Her work in developing recovery-oriented systems of care has been pivotal in creating inclusive, supportive environments that facilitate recovery. Susan's commitment to equity and access ensures that NARR's initiatives reach and impact a diverse population, promoting recovery as a universally accessible journey.
Jason Howell
Jason Howell, a person in long-term recovery, is a fervent advocate for recovery residences. His journey led him to co-found and lead a prominent recovery community organization, where his leadership has been instrumental in setting high standards for sober living environments. Jason's expertise lies in operational best practices, advocacy, and peer support models, making him an invaluable asset to NARR in promoting ethical and effective recovery housing solutions.
Patrick Kennedy
During his time in Congress as U.S. Representative (D-RI), Patrick J. Kennedy was the lead author of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, ensuring equal insurance coverage for mental health and substance use disorders. In 2013, he founded The Kennedy Forum to promote mental health and addiction policies. He co-authored the bestseller "A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction" in 2015, outlining a future for mental health care. He was appointed to the President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis in 2017. Patrick also founded DontDenyMe.org, co-founded One Mind, and currently co-chairs both the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s National Response and the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Behavioral Health Integration Task Force.
Amy Mericle, PhD
Amy Mericle is a researcher and policy analyst whose expertise in the evaluation and regulation of recovery housing has informed national standards and policies. Her work emphasizes the importance of quality and accountability in recovery residences, guiding NARR's efforts to advocate for residences that truly support the recovery process. Amy's contributions help bridge the gap between research, policy, and practice, ensuring that NARR's standards are both rigorous and practical.
Together, our Advisory Council members embody the principles of leadership, innovation, and compassion that drive NARR's mission forward. Their collective wisdom and expertise not only guide our strategic decisions but also inspire our continuous commitment to the recovery community.