Recent UTPB graduate and The Springboard Center Clinical Director, DJ Rambo has been recognized as one of the top ten finalists for Trac 9’s Top Therapists Awards.
“I am sincerely honored to be one of the top 10 finalists. It is important for me to add that I have a wonderful team at the Springboard Center who all take part in assisting with each client that enters this facility. I feel that we all had a part in this placement and am truly proud of my team,” said Rambo.
The Springboard Center provides treatment and counseling for alcoholism and drug addiction for residents of the Permian Basin and surrounding areas. Trac 9, a leader in behavioral health technology, recognizes top therapists with its awards based on the most significant improvements in their clients' Global Recovery Scores over the past quarter, highlighting their effectiveness in therapeutic practices.
“This last year, we served 1,112 participants, averaging 80 clients on our campus each day and provided 22,834 days of treatment throughout our continuum of services. We rely heavily on our staff to provide the first-class services we provide and can only make the impact we do because of our staff and individuals like DJ,” said Springboard Center Director of Marketing and Development, Joe Bell.
Rambo graduated this December with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
“The best part of my experience at UTPB are the people that I have met along the way and the friendships I have developed with other students who went through this journey right along with me. I have grown through this process, learned, and continued to develop and mold my own personal identity,” said Rambo.
A longtime Odessa resident of 48 years, she has spent nine years at the Springboard Center, including seven as a chemical dependency counselor. Her experience includes detox, intensive outpatient treatment, and the residential level of care.
“I am in recovery myself and have 12 years of sobriety on December 12th. I am passionate about the field of substance use disorders and want to make a difference in my community as I work toward helping others on their own personal journey,” said Rambo.
Rambo says what she loves most about her job is seeing clients grow in their recovery and knowing she is a part of an organization committed to helping others.
“There is so much more than the substance use when it comes to people struggling with these disorders such as PTSD, childhood trauma, abuse, and an array of other mental health issues. Taking my education further would allow me to address these additional issues and treat the entire person which would provide the most successful treatment outcome for those struggling with these disorders,” said Rambo.
Rambo says she looks forward to applying her knowledge and skills to continue to benefits others in the community and is grateful for everyone who has helped her along the way.
“I have grown through this process, learned, and continued to develop and mold my own personal identity. This experience has been full of self-exploration and has helped me continue growing on a personal level and as a counselor,” said Rambo.
As to advice she has for students hoping to become a therapist as well…
“If this is your passion, do it! When it becomes difficult or overwhelming, just push through and continue working toward living your dream,” said Rambo.
