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The GateHouse Board of Directors: Honoring Service & Recognizing Leadership

The GateHouse board of directors reflects the strength of this organization — the GateHouse board of directors brings together professionals from law, finance, mental health, and ministry to guide Lancaster’s leading addiction recovery center forward.

 

Honoring Years of Dedicated Service

We extend our deepest gratitude to four remarkable individuals who have termed out of their board service, each having served as board president during their tenure:

 

Former TGH Board Member - Jon ConahanDr. John Conahan brought 30 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor to our board. His expertise in substance use disorder treatment and commitment to recovery services has been invaluable to our growth and development.

 

 

 

Former TGH Board Member - Kathryn GregoireDr. Kathryn Gregoire brought insight to The GateHouse from her experience chairing Millersville University’s Social Work Department. Her extensive research on the connection between child abuse and addiction, combined with her leadership in social service organizations, helped shape our comprehensive approach to recovery.

 

 

 

Former TGH Board Member - Laurie BodishLaurie Bodish leveraged her 30+ years of corporate finance experience and certification as a Trust and Financial Advisor to strengthen our organization’s financial foundation and strategic planning processes.

 

 

 

Former TGH Board Member - Mark WalmerMark Walmer contributed his legal expertise as CEO of PA Pardon Services, bringing a deep understanding of second chances and rehabilitation that aligned perfectly with our mission of supporting recovery and renewal.

 

 

 

 

Current GateHouse Board of Directors

Our current board members continue this legacy of dedicated service:

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Bri CallahanBri Callahan (Board President) – Co-founder of Winston Health, Bri brings unique healthcare industry insights gained from her experience in health insurance and operations management. Her passion for continuous improvement and industry innovation drives her work in developing solutions that enhance physical, mental, and financial health outcomes.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Robert WummerRobert Wummer (Vice President) – An Executive and Ontological Coach with an MBA from LaSalle University, Robert brings over 25 years of executive leadership experience. His background includes significant achievements in the building and construction industry, coupled with a deep commitment to teaching and mentoring. As an adjunct professor at Albright College, he continues to share his expertise in management and leadership development.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Kenneth FalkKenneth Falk (Treasurer) – A semi-retired partner who is now of-counsel at Ross Buehler Falk & Company, Ken offers substantial experience in taxation, business acquisitions, and general management counsel. His expertise spans from small businesses to large entities, with particular strength in financing, mergers and acquisitions, and succession planning. His York College education and decades of experience since 1985 provide valuable financial oversight to our organization.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Gregory FunkGregory Funk (Secretary) – Lead Pastor at Grace Baptist Church, Greg brings over 45 years of ministry experience to our board. His journey includes church planting, youth ministry, and senior pastoral roles across multiple communities. His master’s degree from Regent University and dedication to community service perfectly coincide with our mission of spiritual restoration.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Tim MartinTim Martin – With nearly 40 years in real estate and land development. Tim brings extensive experience in property management and community development. His involvement with Habitat for Humanity and the Chamber of Commerce demonstrates his commitment to community service, while his expertise in residential and investment properties provides valuable perspective to our facilities management.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Ryan VandenbergRyan Vandenberg – As Senior Security Engineer at Knack, Ryan contributes crucial technological expertise to our organization. His background in information security and software development, combined with his Millersville University education, helps ensure our organization stays current with modern security and technology needs.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Ann WoodlandAnn Woodland – A Pennsylvania licensed psychologist and graduate of the Gestalt Training Institute of Philadelphia, Ann served alongside outgoing members, whom she credits with making many contributions to The GateHouse. As she continues her term, Ann brings valuable clinical expertise to our board. Her approach combines cognitive-behavioral and Gestalt therapeutic strategies, enriching our understanding of mental health aspects in recovery.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Hannah SchroerHannah M. Schroer – An associate at Barley Snyder specializing in employment law, Hannah brings unique legal insights from her experience as a Judicial Clerk and her work with various community service organizations. Her cum laude achievements from both Villanova Law and Rutgers University, combined with her commitment to community service, make her an invaluable addition to our board.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Marcy NechemiasMarcy Nechemias – An IBM Data Analyst with over two decades of experience, Marcy brings sophisticated analytical capabilities to our organization. Her extensive background in system analysis, software pricing, and technical support provides a unique perspective for our strategic planning and operational efficiency.

 

 

 

2025 TGH Board Member - Auria BradleyAuria Bradley – As Associate Vice President of Workforce & Continuing Education, Auria contributes 21 years of experience in program management, academic advising, and community college administration. Her bilingual capabilities and expertise in mentoring and career development strengthen our ability to serve diverse populations and develop effective programs.

 

 

 

The diverse expertise and passionate commitment of our board members, both past and present, continue to strengthen The GateHouse’s ability to serve our community and support individuals on their journey to recovery.

We are grateful for the dedication of our outgoing members and excited about the future under our current leadership’s guidance. Together, we continue our mission of restoring the human spirit through recovery by providing comprehensive, community-centered recovery services.

 

 

The GateHouse is here for you, whether you need outpatient support, transitional living, or residential extended care programs. If you’re looking for help now, give us a call at 717-393-3215 or reach out to us today to get started.

 

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Tips to Nurture Emotional Well-being and Mental Health in Recovery

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and represents a time to shine a light on the importance of mental health and well-being. For those in recovery, maintaining and improving mental health is an important part of the journey.

At The GateHouse, we understand that nurturing emotional well-being is key to a successful recovery. By developing strategies to help maintain and improve mental health during recovery, you can establish a clearer path to personal growth and healing.

Understanding Mental Health in Recovery

Mental health is the foundation of overall well-being. It encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act.

During recovery, individuals often face unique mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma-related issues. These challenges can be intertwined with substance use disorders, making it essential to address mental health as part of the recovery process.

Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health in Recovery

Establishing a Routine

One key to establishing stability during recovery is to create a structured routine. A consistent daily schedule helps provide a sense of normalcy and control.

Start by setting specific times for waking up, eating meals, exercising, and going to bed. Incorporating regular activities into your day can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices can significantly benefit mental health by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Simple mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing and body scans, can help ground you in the present moment. Meditation techniques, like guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation, are also effective tools for mental decluttering.

Resources like mindfulness apps and guided meditation videos can provide additional support.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is a well-proven method to help improve mental health.

Exercise releases endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, yoga, and swimming are excellent options for those in recovery.

Incorporating physical activity into your routine can enhance your mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality—all important elements to successful recovery.

Healthy Nutrition

Diet also plays a significant role in mental health. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support emotional well-being.

At the same time, try to avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, which can contribute to anxiety and mood swings. Simple, healthy meals and snacks can provide the nutrients necessary for optimal mental health.

Improving Mental Health in Recovery

12-Step Programs and Meetings

At The GateHouse, we believe strongly in the 12-step program and encourage our residents and clients to regularly participate in 12-step meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). These programs provide a structured approach to recovery, emphasizing personal accountability, spiritual growth, and community support.

Regular attendance at these meetings helps people connect with others who understand their experiences and fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Building a Support Network

Developing a strong support network is a cornerstone of maintaining mental health in recovery. At The GateHouse, we emphasize mentorship as well as sponsorship within the 12-step framework to build an initial support network. Mentors and sponsors provide guidance, support, and accountability, and help those whom they’re supporting navigate the challenges of recovery.

Conversely, those who serve as mentors and sponsors often find their own recovery strengthened through the act of helping others, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that enhances the overall support network.

Another way to further build your support system in recovery is to participate in group therapy sessions. These sessions provide a supportive environment where people can share their experiences, gain insights from others, and build a sense of community and belonging.

At The GateHouse, we offer group therapy sessions in all our programs.

Engaging in Hobbies and Interests

Engaging in enjoyable hobbies and activities provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment and can greatly improve your outlook and mood.

Consider hobbies that promote relaxation and creativity, such as painting, gardening, reading, or playing a musical instrument. Balancing leisure activities with recovery commitments can enhance overall well-being.

Self-Care Practices

Self-care is critical in recovery. Regular self-care activities can reduce stress and improve mental health. Journaling, taking baths, going for nature walks, and practicing yoga are excellent self-care practices.

Set aside some time to care for yourself every day to help maintain a balanced and healthy mind.

Seeking Professional Help

Recognizing when to seek professional help is crucial in maintaining mental health. If you experience persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness, it may be time to consult a mental health professional.

Utilize resources such as hotlines, crisis centers, and mental health organizations for additional support. At The GateHouse, we provide comprehensive resources and services to support your recovery journey.

Embracing Renewal on Your Recovery Journey

All along the recovery journey, decluttering your life can be a transformative step towards healing. It’s about more than just tidying up; it’s a commitment to fostering an environment, both internally and externally, that supports your mental health and recovery.

—

The GateHouse is Central Pennsylvania’s leader in accredited recovery care, recognizing the unique challenges individuals face on their journey to recovery. For more than 50 years, we have helped individuals in our community restore their lives and rediscover the strength of the human spirit.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our support systems and programs designed to help you break the cycle of substance use disorder and put you on the path to recovery.

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How The GateHouse Utilizes the 12-Step Program in Recovery Treatment

There’s so much that goes into recovery treatment at The GateHouse.

From our compassionate staff and counselors to our beautiful residential extended care homes to the solemnity of our newly unveiled Serenity Gardens, our goal is to build a community that supports our clients as they embark on their recovery journey.

And serving as the foundation for that journey is The GateHouse’s unique approach to the 12-Step Program.

For many treatment programs focused on recovery from substance use disorder, 12-step programs are a critical key to success. In general, these sequential programs are designed to not only help individuals overcome substance abuse but also sustain their sobriety and lead a healthy life in recovery.

Most often, the 12 steps are grounded in a submission to a higher power, whether that be God or other types of spirituality.

At The GateHouse, our 12-step program serves as a core element for the personalized recovery treatment our clients receive from us. Each step moves them closer to living life in recovery. Here’s how we utilize these important steps.

The GateHouse Guides Clients Through Steps 1, 2, and 3 of the 12-Step Program

The GateHouse borrows its 12-step program from Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Not only are both programs well-known and trusted by the broader recovery community, but their investment in restoring the human spirit through comprehensive treatment aligns with the mission of The GateHouse.

The first three steps of the 12-step program are core components of The GateHouse’s Residential Extended Care (REC) program. When embarking on the first step, clients attend 12-step program meetings with The GateHouse’s counselors and receive plenty of direction and encouragement. The counselors also help clients establish outside support, including finding a sponsor and other support systems within the broader 12-step community.

While treatment is always tailored to our client’s needs and what can help them most in recovery, the 12-step program is the guiding light of a client’s stay in residential extended care. Here’s what a typical 12-step program looks like at The GateHouse.

The First Step

“We admitted we were powerless over our addiction and that our lives had become unmanageable.”

~ Alcoholics Anonymous Step 1

Treatment in step one focuses on unpacking what individuals feel powerless over. During this step, individuals are encouraged to reflect on when their life became unmanageable and what toxic behaviors, such as blacking out or becoming enraged, interfered in their day-to-day lives. Clients and staff use worksheets designed to facilitate this crucial first step in the program.

Step one is an opportunity to gain insight into how the client’s behaviors resulted in the undesired outcomes that led to their recovery, such as putting one’s kids in danger or compromising personal values.

The ultimate goal of step one is gaining self-awareness.

The Second Step

“We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”

~ Alcoholics Anonymous Step 2

In step two, the focus shifts to creating a belief system and instilling faith in a higher power.

Once again, this higher power can be God, nature, or any other type of spiritual connection. The goal is to establish a belief system that can help with distorted thinking and promote internal growth.

At The GateHouse, when clients enter step two, they also gain more independence. Clients are given permission to attend 12-step meetings with their sponsor and even schedule off-site activities with them, such as grabbing lunch or coffee.

The Third Step

“We made a decision to turn our will and our lives to the care of God as we understood Him.”

~ Alcoholics Anonymous Step 3

As clients move into step three, they begin to plan for their recovery journey once they leave The GateHouse.

Step three focuses on surrendering to a higher power and “radical acceptance.” It’s geared towards achieving peace of mind as clients make decisions about where life will take them next. In this phase, clients are given even more agency regarding communication with their 12-step sponsor.

At this point, it’s important for clients to get a sense of how they will remain committed to 12-step recovery once they leave The GateHouse.

Building a Community and Establishing a Support System is Key During these First Three Steps

As Tara Drury, Clinical Director at The GateHouse’s Marietta Residential Treatment Center, explains, “We want clients to start to build a support system while they’re here so they can form a foundation for recovery. That way, when they’re discharged, they can take the tools they’ve acquired during the first three steps of the program and apply them.”

Finding the right sponsor and support group is key to success in the program, and The GateHouse can help guide individuals towards the right fellowship.

“At The GateHouse, we support and encourage our clients to become active in the 12-step community,” Tara said. “It’s those relationships that will help them stay on the path to long-term recovery well after they leave The GateHouse.”

The GateHouse’s 12-Step Program Helps Clients Find Their Way to Lifelong Recovery

Healing from substance use disorder takes inner strength—something our programs help to instill.

“Our 12-step program helps each client not only get onto a path to recovery but also grow as an individual as they overcome their past behaviors,” Tara said. “When our clients accept and surrender to a higher power, they develop the peace of mind and strength they need to live a healthy, happy life in recovery.”

At The GateHouse, we create a support system for each of our clients to break the cycle of addiction and get them on a path to recovery, including services for long-term recovery with locations throughout Lancaster County, PA. We’d love to help you with your next step in recovery. Reach out to us today!

 

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Understanding The 5 Stages of Addiction Recovery

We tend to think first about the hardship substance use disorder creates for the person suffering from addiction – many times forgetting that their family members and friends are suffering, too.

It’s never easy to watch someone you love battle addiction. But, by understanding the stages of addiction recovery and what your loved one is going through to combat their disease, you can better support them through their journey towards recovery – and better support yourself, as well.

There Are 5 Stages of Addiction Recovery Your Loved One Will Go Through

Every major life change we face follows the path of what experts call “The Five Stages of Change.” Recovery from addiction is a major change and is therefore no different. At each stage of addiction, we move from denial of the addiction to a place of wellbeing and continued recovery.

Understanding the stages of recovery can help family members and loved ones connect with the struggles their parent, child, or friend is facing, and better understand what’s required to overcome a disease as debilitating as addiction.

The 5 Stages of Addiction Recovery:

Stage 1:  Pre-Contemplative

In this first stage of recovery, your loved one likely doesn’t recognize their addiction as an addiction. They don’t believe they have a problem to confront, and they can be very resistant to any conversations that suggest otherwise. Because of this, it’s almost always difficult to have a conversation with the person if they’re in denial or unwilling to recognize the problem.

Most of the time when someone is in the pre-contemplative stage, they’re still suffering from their addiction but haven’t started treatment despite suggestions from family and friends to do so.

In some cases, it may make sense for family and friends to host an intervention to confront the person’s addiction head-on. If they’re open to it, there are opportunities for your loved one to receive an assessment through our Behavioral Health Outpatient Center here at The GateHouse to better understand what’s really going on.

Stage 2: Contemplative

Someone moves from the first stage to the second stage – the contemplative stage – as they begin to identify that they’re suffering from substance use disorder. But, while they’re now aware of the issues surrounding addiction in their life, they’re also having an internal debate about whether they’re willing to change.

During Stage 2, your loved one can struggle to identify which behaviors they need to change to support abstinence. They may not recognize that certain behaviors are undermining their recovery.

This is where The GateHouse enters the process. Most clients who come to The GateHouse have gone through a 90-day treatment program and are in Stage 2.

Our goal in this stage is to raise awareness with our clients about the specific behaviors that fuel their substance abuse and have caused relapses in the past. A person who’s suffering from a substance abuse disorder often makes decisions based on instant gratification. They’ve lost the ability to see the big picture, including the consequences of their actions. In Stage 2, we help them build new insights and objectivity so they can make decisions that better support their long-term goals.

Stage 3: Preparation

This is a pivotal stage in someone’s progression towards lifelong recovery. Stage 3 is the preparation stage. This is when your loved one really starts to gain an awareness of their addiction and identify the specific changes they need to make in order to reach abstinence.

For example, they may recognize the trigger of working at a job around alcohol and determine that they can’t work in a restaurant that serves alcoholic drinks. Or, if they realize that certain family members or friends trigger their substance use, they may think through the boundaries they need to set with those people in their life.

At The GateHouse, our counselors take the lead with clients in the preparation stage. They help clients gain an awareness of their triggers and create a plan for how to change their behavior, so those triggers are no longer in the way of their recovery. They also prepare them with the skills to manage the stress they feel as they move through this stage of change.

Stage 4: Action

Now, it’s about the follow-through. In Stage 4, the action phase, your loved one is ready to take action on the plan they’ve created to move towards lifelong recovery. At this stage, they’re typically employed, abstinent, and just starting to put their plan into action.

Our goal at The GateHouse is to help our clients reach Stage 4 by the time that they’re leaving one of our treatment centers and possibly moving into a recovery house.

However, there are also times when our clients move on while still in the preparation stage. And that’s just fine. Each of our programs is customized to a particular client – there’s no right or wrong treatment plan; just the plan that’s right for that individual.

Stage 5: Maintenance

After taking action, maintaining sobriety and the journey through lifelong recovery is the final stage. It’s here that we encourage our clients to take part in our outpatient services and stay involved with a community of men and women who understand the journey they’re on and can provide support along the way. Again, every client has different needs which is why we have multiple outpatient services, including intensive outpatient treatment, general outpatient treatment, and partial hospitalization treatment.

The need for support and community doesn’t end once the maintenance stage is reached. For many men and women recovering from substance abuse, it may be more important than ever.

One way we’re supporting our clients as they maintain their recovery is through The GateHouse Alumni & Friends Association. Here, people can keep the community connections they created in treatment that became so vital to the start of their recovery journey.

Your Loved One May Flow Back and Forth Between These Stages as They Head Towards Recovery

Despite the way we think about The 5 Stages of Recovery, these stages aren’t necessarily linear. Recovery is a lifelong process that takes work and determination. Your loved one may begin to prepare to make changes, but some days shift back into the contemplative stage as they consider the huge changes that recovery will bring to their life.

That’s okay. And it’s what our team at The GateHouse is here for. We work to help each of our clients navigate their own, personal road to lifelong recovery, no matter how long and windy it may be.

We create a support system for each of our clients to break the cycle of substance abuse and get them on a path towards recovery. We make sure that appropriate interventions are made at any level of care based on the client’s stage of change.  Whether they need our Residential Extended Care program, a transitional living environment, or outpatient support, we are here for them.

Every step is individualized so our clients receive the best care for their personal needs.

When you and your loved one are ready to discuss a treatment plan and start to work towards long-term recovery, our team will be here ready to support you on your journey.

The GateHouse offers addiction treatment services for long-term addiction recovery with locations throughout Lancaster County, PA. We’d love to help you with your next step in recovery. Reach out to us today!

 

 

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