Peer Integration Community Research Consultants

The Addiction Science team is actively engaged in program development, research, and community partnership aimed to save and improve the lives of people who use drugs and others impacted by addiction. The Community Research Consultants work in collaboration with MIMH staff to develop and implement research projects to advance the role of peers within SUD treatment and recovery support organizations. Their expertise as Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) and/or CPS supervisors adds invaluable insights about the peer workforce and helps ensure that research is relevant and applicable to peers across Missouri.

 

Darla belflower

Darla Belflower has worked in leadership in the substance use disorder and behavioral health fields for over three decades. She is a Clinically Licensed Social Worker in both Missouri and Kansas, is a Licensed Addiction Counselor in Kansas, Certified Reciprocal Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor in MO, Certified Peer Specialist, Certified Tabaco Treatment Specialist, and is a trainer and educator of Naloxone distribution. She obtained her MSW from KU and she has a BS in Psychology and Alcohol and Drug Studies from Missouri Valley College.  She has made presentations at numerous professional conferences, seminars and trainings at the local, state and national levels.

 
 

Caitlin Ewing

Caitlin has first-hand experience with the negative effects of gaps in resources, stigma, and lack of community education. Her background in the treatment of substance use disorder and lived experience fuels her passion for helping others. Caitlin is a Certified Peer Specialist and is currently continuing her education at University of Missouri St. Louis in an effort to be of maximum benefit to the treatment and recovery of those who still suffer

 
 
 
 

Nicole Boyd

Nicole Boyd is in long-term recovery.  She obtained her CPS Credential in June of 2018 and shortly after began working for Burrell Behavioral Health’s Treatment and Recovery Enhancement and Expansion (TREE) Grant. The focus of her work for the last four years has been to connect youth with substance use disorder to recovery through recovery housing, MAT services, residential and out-patient treatment, advocacy and Peer Support. 

 

Christina Lee

Christina Lee, is a Peer Navigator (case manager) Supervisor at the DBSA St. Louis Empowerment Center. Her achievements and credentials are CPS, AAS Human Services, Certificate of Specialization in Addiction. She has over five years of lived experience in recovery, a passion to help others and advocate for individuals trying to find recovery.

 



Andreas Prince

Andreas began working in SUD services in Chicago with Methadone treatment. There he worked in residential and outpatient services. Andreas is a Columbia College graduate with a B.A, CPS, CADC, MAADC II. He also has lived experience and is in long term recovery. Andreas has worked on multiple grants since 1991, helping to develop the best practices for said grants.