Staff Spotlight – Bart Ross

Bart Ross | Recovery Services Manager

What brought you to the field of addiction treatment? What brought you to Hanley?

I started going to 12-Step recovery programs in 1987 for my alcohol and drug addiction. After destroying what life I had, I got serious about the 12-Step program in 1995. I recovered and became very passionate about the 12-Step way of life. I started hearing about many people going to treatment, but I was very close-minded about the need. Years later, I realized how selfish that was. Treatment is an excellent opportunity for people to address addiction and other issues in a safe environment. Alcoholism is a family disease, and treatment also gives the whole family a chance to recover. As an active and informed member of the 12-Step community, I started hearing great things about Hanley and realized their philosophy on recovery matched my own.

What is your favorite part about working with alumni?

As the Recovery Services Manager, the best part is getting the opportunity to build relationships with every patient. I’m engaged in their treatment and spend downtime talking about everyday life. I can see them becoming a big part of the Hanley family. Watching them recover and leave treatment, they know they can reach out to me as a friend whether things are tough or great. I get calls, emails or see them at meetings.

What have you learned through your experience working in treatment?

I work with some of the best in the field of addiction and continue to grow in my life. Working in treatment is not part of my 12-Step recovery, but it is a big part of my personal growth. Our team is like family, and we help each other grow. I’ve learned about the medical side of addiction, better ways of interacting with others, new job skills, and how to be a team player. I’m sure as time passes, I’ll continue to learn more.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? 

I have an amazing wife, two amazing daughters, and a grandson. My wife and I are two of the biggest live music fanatics. We are like two teenagers, always making our way to the stage. We also have the same passion for helping others in recovery. Watching the kids grow is bittersweet. My daughter from a previous marriage is married to a great man. My wife’s daughter from an earlier marriage is a flight attendant. As proud of them as we are, we don’t get to see them much. When I’m home, you will almost always find me in my garden. I collect plants and enjoy scuba diving, fishing, and photography. We have a dog that rules the house and is our stay-at-home child.