This special section highlights the work our coalition partners are doing to keep our 
community safe, healthy and drug-free. Last month, we spoke with Patricia Hammonds with American Addiction Center.
1. What is your background in substance abuse prevention?
I have been in the field of mental health and substance abuse treatment for 30 years. I can’t imagine doing anything else! I have been fortunate to work in all aspects of the field including director positions, admissions, marketing & business development, contract oversight and implementation as well as utilization review and direct patient care. I have formerly held positions at Peninsula Hospital, Advocare of Tennessee, and Brookhaven Retreat. Currently, I am Treatment Consultant for American Addiction Centers.
2. How did you first become involved with our coalition?
I sought out involvement with the coalition to be a resource for the community and surrounding areas for entities who are seeking as well providing services for those in need of quality substance abuse and mental health care. I also felt that the coalition provided great opportunities to be directly involved in addressing the issues surrounding substance abuse in the area.
3. Tell us a bit about American Addiction Centers and its services.
Our mission is to provide quality, comprehensive, compassionate and innovative care to adults and adolescents struggling with alcohol and/or drug conditions and mental/behavioral health issues. Through evidence-based and empathetic care we instill hope that long-term recovery is possible. Our purpose and passion is to empower the individual, his/her family, and the community through the promotion of optimal wellness of the mind, body, and spirit.
Our treatment options include:
Clinical Assessments, Medical Detox, Residential/Rehabilitation, Behavioral Health Services, Aftercare, Employee Care, Adolescent Care and Lifestyle Wellness.
We offer these services in a variety of facilities located throughout the country:
Greenhouse, Dallas, TX
Desert Hope, Las Vegas, NV
Forterus, Southern California
Singer Island, Palm Beach, FL
The Academy, (adolescents only), Palm Beach, FL
FitRx, (Eating disorder, binge-eating) Nashville, TN
4. Talk to us about what FitRx is and its benefits.
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, FitRx provides PHP and IOP treatment programs for adult men and women with binge eating, emotional eating, night eating syndrome and compulsive overeating disorder. To provide the most comprehensive care that honors the unique challenges posed by binge eating disorders, four main components are woven into the clinical program: behavioral, medical, nutritional and physical wellness.
5. What makes FitRx different than other lifestyle treatment programs?
The fact that we focus specifically on binge-eating and also heal the brain through neuroscience. We work to stimulate nerve cell growth and rewire the brain with nutrition, sleep hygiene, avoidance of behaviors/substances that damage the brain, stress management and more.
6. What do you love most about your work at ACC and FitRx?
I love the fact that we consider all individuals who come into our programs, “rescues” not admissions. Knowing that I am helping a family or a suffering individual find hope in their time of need is very rewarding.
7. How can others get in touch with you to learn more about your services?
I can be reached anytime for questions regarding AAC or FitRx @ 865-227-1405 as well as phammonds@contactaac.com. I am accessible 24-7