Executive Director | NC Foundation for Alcohol & Drug Studies
Durham, NC

Sarah brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership and a strong academic background to her role at NCFADS, where she is committed to advancing the organization’s mission of providing exceptional training for addiction professionals across North Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Appalachian State University, along with dual master’s degrees in public administration and policy, which uniquely equip her to understand both the practical and policy aspects of public health initiatives.

Sarah’s career in the nonprofit sector spans various leadership roles, including volunteering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s NC Chapter (AFSP-NC), where she served as Chair of the Public Policy Committee and Associate Area Director. A key highlight of her tenure was securing a $200,000 CDC Comprehensive Suicide Prevention grant, demonstrating her strategic thinking and dedication to improving community health.

As Director of Development for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of East NC (MAW-ENC), Sarah further developed her expertise in relationship-building, organizational growth, and fostering impactful partnerships. Her extensive experience in both development and public health aligns seamlessly with NCFADS’s mission.

Her passion for the mission and her proven leadership in the nonprofit sector position her to play a key role in the organization’s future success.

Undergraduate Program Director, Assistant Professor, & Opioid Workforce Expansion Project (OWEP) Coordinator | Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC

Beth Young, DSW, is a dedicated social work educator and clinician with over 15 years of experience in mental health and addiction services for children and families. She earned her Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree from the University of St. Thomas in 2021 and her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Western Carolina University in 2010. Since 2016, Beth has served as an assistant professor at Western Carolina University, where she oversees the Graduate Addiction Studies Certificate Program and coordinates the Opioid Workforce Expansion Program Grant.

Beyond her academic role, Beth is an active community leader, serving on several boards including Full Spectrum Farms, Vecino’s Migrant Farmworkers Mental Health Advisory Board, Smoky Mountain Harm Reduction, and the Mountain Area Pro Bono Health Services Clinic. She is also deeply involved in substance use prevention and recovery initiatives across Haywood, Jackson, Swain, and Macon Counties.

Beth holds multiple professional certifications, including Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), and Certified Clinical Supervisor in North Carolina. She has supervised clinicians working toward their LCAS, CADC, and LCSW credentials since 2011. Passionate about improving mental health and addiction services, Beth focuses on education, training, and supervision, ensuring that the next generation of social workers and addiction counselors are equipped to provide high-quality care. Her commitment to both clinical practice and community service has made a lasting impact on the field.

Clinical Director | Red Oak Recovery
Asheville, NC

Paul Weaver, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, is a seasoned mental health professional with a passion for supporting emerging adults, particularly those with co-occurring substance use and psychiatric disorders. With a Master’s in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University, Paul has worked extensively in both hospital and outpatient settings. His therapeutic approach is influenced by the work of Carl Rogers, Viktor Frankl, and Carl Jung, focusing on themes of autonomy, identity formation, and the search for meaning and purpose.

Paul is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and provides clinical supervision and training through the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors and the North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board. His role as Clinical Director at Red Oak Recovery allows him to continue his work with emerging adults while also exploring his interests in Eco and Adventure Therapy, blending his professional expertise with his passion for nature and sustainability.

Outside of work, Paul and his wife, along with their two young children, enjoy spending time camping, hiking, and exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, which they call home. His personal and professional commitment to sustainability and the outdoors aligns with his desire to integrate nature-based therapies into his clinical work. Paul is dedicated to fostering meaningful change in the lives of his clients, helping them build resilience, find purpose, and thrive in their recovery.

Addiction Research & Clinical Health M.S. Degree Programs & Assistant Professor | Wake Forest University, School of Medicine
Program Director | Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
Winston-Salem, NC

Dr. Yasmin Gay is an accomplished clinician and educator with extensive experience in providing administrative, direct care, consultation, and supervision across diverse settings for individuals with disabilities and impairments. She specializes in trauma-informed, culturally competent clinical and supportive services for individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Dr. Gay holds a doctorate in Rehabilitation Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling Education from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She is credentialed in several areas, including Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), and Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional (CCJP).

Currently, Dr. Gay serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at Wake Forest School of Medicine, where she teaches and provides clinical supervision to emerging clinicians and healthcare professionals. Her work focuses on trauma-related injuries, substance use, behavioral addictions, and co-occurring conditions. Additionally, Dr. Gay is the project lead clinician for the newly established Trauma Connection Supportive Care and Wellness Clinic, where she oversees clinical services and provides outpatient counseling support.

As the owner and operator of Essential Path Counseling and Consultants PLLC, Dr. Gay brings her expertise in rehabilitation counseling, trauma-informed care, and addiction treatment to individuals and communities in need. Her career is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals impacted by trauma, mental health challenges, and substance use, through education, clinical practice, and advocacy.

Founder & Owner, K*Metamorphosis Counseling Services
Winston-Salem, NC

Dr. Kendra Davis is a dynamic speaker, trainer, and counselor known for her energizing and empowering approach to education. Described by many as a “vitamin B12 shot,” Dr. Davis has delivered impactful presentations for numerous organizations, including the North Carolina Foundations for Alcohol & Drug Studies, NC Department of Public Safety, YWCA Hawley House, and The Bethesda Center for the Homeless, among others. Her eclectic presentation style, combining audio-visual aids and interactive activities, ensures that learning is both engaging and practical.

Dr. Davis holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from Winston-Salem State University. She also earned a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Biblical Studies from Apex School of Theology. Her professional credentials are extensive, including certifications as an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Master Addictions Counselor (MAC), Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS). She is also certified as a Criminal Justice Addiction Professional (CCJP) and a Sex Offender Treatment Specialist (CSOTS).

In 2010, Dr. Davis founded K*Metamorphosis, a counseling and professional development firm dedicated to filling critical treatment and training gaps in the community. Through K*Metamorphosis, she empowers individuals with the tools and resources needed to transform their lives. Dr. Davis is also the author of It’s ONLY a Test: Mastering the Addiction Counselor’s Exam, a hands-on study guide designed to help addiction counselors succeed.

Her life mission is rooted in the belief of the butterfly effect, where small changes can lead to significant transformations.

Field Coordinator | North Carolina Professional Health Program
High Point, NC

Jason Yates is a Field Coordinator with the North Carolina Professionals Health Program, bringing over 25 years of experience in the substance use and mental health fields. Beginning his career in 1998 working with the homeless population, Jason has dedicated his life to supporting individuals facing substance use disorders and mental health challenges. He holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, along with credentials as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS).

For more than two decades, Jason provided clinical and administrative leadership at Caring Services, Inc., an organization focused on helping homeless individuals with substance use and mental health issues. He has also facilitated training sessions for the North Carolina Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) and taught as an adjunct instructor at UNCG since 2011.

Outside of his professional work, Jason is passionate about volunteering with human and animal welfare organizations and enjoys foraging, especially for mushrooms, as well as playing softball and gardening. His dedication to both his professional work and community service makes him a valuable asset to any team.

Behavioral Health Director | Center for Community Transitions
Founder & Owner | Clear Mind Counseling, LLC
Charlotte, NC

Karen Wheeler is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and the Behavioral Health Director at the Center for Community Transitions in Charlotte, NC, where she oversees reentry services for incarcerated women with 1-3 years remaining on their sentences. Since 2019, she has also operated Clear Mind Counseling, LLC, providing individual therapy and DWI services in the Charlotte area.

Karen earned her graduate degree in social work from Winthrop University and has nearly three decades of experience in the mental health and addiction fields. Over the years, she has had the privilege of supporting clients on their journey to therapeutic healing and early recovery. Her deep passion for the helping profession drives her commitment to supporting individuals facing challenges related to mental health and addiction.

Outside of her professional life, Karen enjoys traveling, gardening, and cooking. She’s also a fan of action movies and fiction reading. A lifelong learner, Karen is excited to bring her expertise and dedication to her new role as a board member of NCFADS, where she hopes to continue making a positive impact in the community.