Neil E. Northey, the Program Director of Interim’s Manzanita Monterey crisis residential facility, Interim is a prime example of the care Interim takes in investing in the professional growth of its employees. Along his journey, Neil has learned many universal truths about how we grow as individuals, things that we all share no matter what path we follow.
Neil started down his path with Interim as an intern in 2017-18, while he was a student at CSUMB in the final year of his MSW (Masters of Social Work) program. Neil wanted an internship that focused on mental health treatment, making Interim a natural fit. He accepted an opportunity to intern at Bridge House a residential treatment facility serving adults with a co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorder.
“The learning experience exceeded any preconceived ideas I expected to get out of the placement. I had the privilege of observing residents form strong bonds with each other, work through interpersonal challenges with the skills being taught at the program. I collaborated with the team of counselors on the residents’ care and discharge planning, organized support team meetings with staff at the Monterey County Behavioral Health Bureau, and witnessed how a multi-disciplinary team operated to serve the residents. The learning experience was immense and gave me a deep understanding of what the social rehabilitation model looks like in practice.”
After his internship, Neil was offered a position as a Behavioral Health Clinician at the Wellness & Recovery Academy. During his time at the Academy, the program expanded. It was thriving up until the pandemic struck in 2019. Services were adjusted to limit in-person group gatherings. During that time, the Dual Recovery Services Program was also transitioning, both in name and approach. Keep It Real continued serving individuals that were previously involved in the Dual Recovery Services program and adopted an approach to support substance use treatment. Neil applied for the Keep It Real and Outreach and Aftercare Program Director position when an opportunity became available. During this time, he learned more about program development, implementation, management, and supervisor responsibilities. In October 2022, he turned over another new leaf as he transitioned into his current role as Program Director at Manzanita Monterey.
Neil’s journey with Interim exemplifies the transformative power of professional growth. He entered as an intern seeking experience, and emerged a leader. He now shapes programs that empower countless individuals. His story is a testament to Interim’s unwavering commitment to its employees, and the ripple effect it creates for those Interim serves. Thank you, Neil, for being a shining example of what dedication and continuous learning can achieve.
“Occasionally, I get struck by memories of being the Bridge House intern and “imposter syndrome” wants to kick in: “I’m just the intern”. It helps to remind myself that learning is an ongoing process, and that growth usually feels uncomfortable.”