Empathy and Resilience: Meet Asa, Senior firsthand Guide in Memphis, TN

Asa is a Senior firsthand Guide (Peer Recovery Specialist) in Memphis, TN. Despite facing huge challenges in her life, Asa has not only survived- but thrived. She’s triumphed over poor mental health and addiction. She knows the depths of despair and the immense strength it takes to recover. This empathy is the foundation of her ability to connect with others. She doesn't shy away from vulnerability, and seeks to create a safe space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their challenges and hopes. This is far more than a job for Asa—it's her calling.

At firsthand, Asa appreciates the personal and mutual support that everyone at the company is willing to offer to each other, no matter what role they’re in. All opinions are listened to and valued. Asa has the freedom in her job to meet the individuals she serves exactly where they are- both literally and figuratively. Each relationship is tailored to an individual’s needs, and this individuality is something that Asa’s resourcefulness, patience and compassion are perfectly suited for. She taps into available resources to ensure that individuals receive the help they need- not just for their immediate issues, but for their long-term wellness.

Asa's support goes far beyond the practical aspects of recovery. She offers emotional support and encouragement. She knows that true progress in recovery requires individuals to make personal, often difficult decisions. Asa provides a listening ear, allowing those she supports to express their concerns and fears, while ensuring that they are not alone on their journey.

When Asa first met Sherry, one of the individuals that firsthand serves, she was struggling with severe mental health issues and experiencing horrifying and debilitating hallucinations. The episodes made daily life immensely challenging for Sherry. She was calling Asa and her team members dozens of times a day out of confusion and desperation, not knowing how to manage her time.

Recognizing the need for a different approach, Asa advocated for a change in Sherry's treatment during an appointment with her mental health provider. Sherry received an adjustment in her medication. Sherry's symptoms subsided, and her quality of life dramatically improved.

Sherry also struggled to know what constituted an emergency or when she needed to go to the emergency room. Asa was able to help her distinguish between emergencies and non emergencies, and Sherry, who was once a regular at the local emergency room, has not gone to the ER in over a year, all while receiving better health and behavioral healthcare. 

Asa also helped Sherry establish a structured daily routine with the simple use of a calendar and stickers to help her manage appointments, meal times, due dates, and other important engagements. Asa has helped Sherry learn how to make a grocery list, and they shop together. Asa taught Sherry some of her favorite recipes, and she is now cooking for herself.

Sherry's life has taken a complete turn, from daily struggle to a better sense of independence and empowerment. She now feels in control of her day-to-day life and her schedule. Sherry now calls Asa on a scheduled basis to check in, as marked on her calendar, except for when she has immediate needs.

Asa’s approach embodies one of firsthand’s core values: keeping the individuals we serve at the center of everything we do. Supportive community and compassionate guidance can change lives. It's not just about providing assistance; it's about creating an environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and valued.

We’re hiring Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, AKA firsthand Guides, in Tennessee, Ohio, Florida and Michigan. If you have lived experience with Serious Mental Illness and/or Substance Use Disorder and are passionate about supporting others on their journey to recovery, you can find more information and apply here.