Karen J Russell is a peer support specialist at Vaya Health LME/MCO, working on the Whole Health Pilot Program and Diabetic Pilot for her first 4 years. Like her father, Karen joined the Army at age 17, having her mother sign for her to join. (Running away since the challenges and temptations kept coming). Karen moved to North Carolina in 1993, where she went to work at the DOC and other jobs leading to her recovery path 10 years later. In 2003 Karen began her recovery with her Higher Power and Native Shaman. Karen is now in sustained recovery from mental health challenges, depression, grief, and anxiety using self-directed recovery. Karen also has an Associate in Human Service, is Reiki Master and Healing Touch apprentice, and is a WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) Facilitator. 
Karen became a NC Peer Support in 2015, working one-on-one with peers and facilitating groups at Psychosocial Rehabilitation Facility, sharing her story and journey of recovery, working with a Shaman, practicing self-healing, and realizing that self-directed recovery does happen.

When not working, Karen enjoys being with her family, gardening, camping, hiking, singing, and playing guitar. Karen contributes her sustained recovery to her spirituality, faith, family, and Hope, her certified therapy dog.   There is always Hope in Recovery!