At CFGC, we like to say there's a family atmosphere among our team but, in the case of Jennifer and Bryan Garcia, it's more literal. Jennifer and Bryan are a married couple, working in two different programs here at CFGC — Bryan as a bilingual Outpatient Clinician and Jennifer as a bilingual Recovery Support Specialist in our Substance Screening, Treatment and Recovery for Youth (SSTRY) program. We asked these two some questions on their roles here and what it's like to work together in the same agency. When did you join CFGC Jennifer: I started at CFGC as a bilingual intern in August 2021. I'm currently a graduate student at Sacred Heart University within the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. In addition, I've acquired a job as a Recovery Support Specialist in November 2021, with the SSTRY program at CFGC. As a recovery support specialist, I will provide support services for individuals and families to address issues around substance abuse and co-occurring disorders towards the recovery process. Prior to working with the agency, I had 14 years of experience within the banking industry. I have wonderful memories that I will forever cherish but I wanted to make a change within my career and pursue my passion for working within the behavioral and mental health field. Bryan: I began at CFGC November 2, 2020. I would describe my position as a “hero without a cape.” I believe in the work that CFGC does, as well as the population we serve. I grew up around the area and have experienced some of the struggles our clients face. Prior to CFGC, I interned at a residential home with individuals with dual disorders. After graduating with an MSW, I worked in the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR Clinician). What is it like working at the same agency as your spouse Jennifer: This is such a great and popular question we always get when people find out we work together. I never thought I would ever work with my husband, honestly. We don't get to see each other as often when we're in the office, which gives us an opportunity to focus on our work. We try to prioritize taking lunch together, when possible, to spend time with each other —without having a 3-year-old daughter and 2 dogs interrupting. Bryan: I truly do not mind it (wink wink). We try to separate home/work life. I enjoy that we have lunch at work on Fridays while we are at the office. I especially enjoy it if she pays!! Goals for 2022 Jennifer: My goal for this year is to continue learning regarding my current role as a recovery support specialist and an intern. With the support of my team, I want to get the Waterbury office up and running and continue building relationships that will be great for SSTRY and CFGC to have with other regions within the state. Bryan: My goal is to continue furthering my knowledge and skills in therapy. I am a huge advocate for mental health/human justice, and I get to do both here at CFGC! | 
